I’m currently in route back to Charlotte where a mammoth week of work that will end in my weekend CrossFit Level 1 Course waits for me when I touch down. But I’m pleased to say that I’m approaching it with less anxiety and stress and more confidence and contentment.

This trip has been both nice and necessary. I’ve been able to take a big step back from not only work but also my life in general. This has provided new perspective and new energy. I have slept more soundly over the past few days than I have in months. What is it about moms and the ocean that seem to allow these things to happen?

I think “allow” is the key word. You can’t cultivate these feelings and behaviors when you are constantly wound up and in a shell…which I am sometimes (okay, a lot of the time) guilty of doing. Sometimes you have to allow yourself to exhale and step back. I think that step back is what lets the excess and unnecessary fall away so you can make room for the things that are going to uplift you. The uplifting and good things can’t happen when you’re so focused on the stressors in your life.

My mantra of choice this year has been, “I’m okay.” I have said this before and I will continually repeat it but it’s all about perspective. You simply cannot allow yourself to get so wrapped up in your own life. Everyone has shit going on. Everyone. And don’t believe them if they pretend like they’re perfect. No one is perfect.

You must focus on all of the things that are okay even when you feel like you’re so not okay. And trust me…I know that sometimes things are really, really not okay. You just have to believe that you’re okay. Ultimately, you are the only one responsible for the quality of your life and your happiness. You can’t depend on others to do it for you. I know that is a rather abrupt thing to say but the truth is that you have to make you happy and good before you can go out and share that with others. And I know how nice it feels to share it with others.

For me that’s sounds like this: “I’m healthy. I eat well. I have friends and family who love and support me. I have a job. I have a home. I have a ridiculously sweet dog. I can travel. I can write. I can teach. I can appreciate the beauty of the things around me. I have hobbies that I feel passionately about.” So many people in this world cannot say those things. We are blessed beyond belief.

So figure out your mantra and repeat it. Make a list of things you are thankful for. Write about things that make you feel good. Tell people that you love them. Nurture your soul. Retreat when you need to recharge. Take care of you.

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