7 Steps to Transform 2024

Hey there, everyone!

I'm not going to sugarcoat it - 2023 threw some curveballs my way. As I'm getting older, I'm learning that the emotional strategies that worked in my younger years need a bit of an update. It's like outgrowing your favorite sweater; what fit perfectly once might not be the best choice now. But hey, every challenge is a chance to learn and grow, right?

Here's a little nugget of wisdom I've picked up: Change is a constant, but there are some timeless truths that always stick around. One big realization for me? Self-care isn't selfish at all. In fact, it's pretty much essential. It's like putting on your oxygen mask first – you've got to be in good shape to tackle everything life throws at you.

So, let's talk self-care basics: Eat well, catch those Zs, get moving during the day, and find a spiritual practice that speaks to you. I know, I know – some of you might be thinking, "Not this again!" But trust me, these simple steps can be total game-changers. They're like the secret ingredients to a stronger, more resilient you.

Writing down what works for you can be super helpful. It's been a lifesaver for me, especially in building a nervous system that's ready for anything.

Now, let's dive into the fun stuff...

“We don’t crave animal-based meat, dairy, and eggs, but we do crave fat, salt, flavor, texture, and familiarity.”  _{^{- Colleen Patrick Goudreau}} 

Now, let's chat about something pretty cool – the idea that the answers we're looking for might just be hiding in plain sight. Ever thought about how the principles of interior design could actually teach us a thing or two about life? Yeah, I know, it sounds a bit out there, but hear me out.

Imagine your life as a room you're designing. In a well-planned room, everything flows smoothly, right? There's a place for your comfy sofa, your pictures are hung just where they need to be, and walking through doesn't feel like an obstacle course. This kind of harmony and balance can be part of our lives too!

It's all about organizing our lives the way we'd arrange a room. Instead of trying to solve life's puzzles with complicated theories, we can look at how our personal space reflects and affects us. How does your space make you feel? Calm? Energized? Overwhelmed? The way we interact with our surroundings can say a lot about our inner state.

So think about it – if your life was a room, what would it look like? Is it cluttered with stuff you don't need? Or is it thoughtfully arranged to give you peace and energy? Sometimes, by simply rearranging a few things (literally or metaphorically), we can create a space that truly feels like home – a space where we can thrive.

Alright, let's get down to it: Planning + Preparation = Participation. It's a simple formula, but it packs a punch. When you know your game plan, you're not just watching life from the sidelines – you're in it, playing full-on.

And here's a cheeky truth: Knowing the rules is the first step to breaking them effectively. It's like being a rebel, but a smart one.

Now, a heads-up about handling life's curveballs: If your nervous system isn't up for it, tough situations can knock you off your feet. That's why building a resilient, strong nervous system is key. Think of it as your personal armor against life's surprises.

The Seven Elements of Interior Design for Life:

1. Space: It's all about understanding and respecting your emotional territory. Think of it like your personal bubble – important to keep intact and healthy.

2. Lines: Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries. Just like the lines in a blueprint, they define where things go and where they don't.

3. Form: Once those lines are drawn, use them to sculpt a life that's both functional and fulfilling. It's like turning a sketch into a sculpture.

4. Pattern: Our habits are our life's patterns. Notice them. Are they creating a beautiful design or just noise?

5. Texture: Life is a tapestry of experiences. Each one adds a new texture, a new layer of depth. How do these textures feel in your life?

6. Color: The roles we play add color to our lives. Just like the right colors can make a room pop, the right roles can make our purpose clear and vibrant.

7. Light: Ever notice how everything looks different when the light's on? That's what insight does. It illuminates.

Designing a Life of Harmony:

Conflict isn't just noise; it's the start of a meaningful conversation. In interior design, dynamic lines might clash but also bring a room together. Similarly, in life, stepping into the zone of conflict can be the key to connection. Think martial arts – it's not just about the fight; it's about the mind and body syncing up instinctively, without overthinking.

Sometimes, we get bogged down by too many variables in self-care. While these principles are great for family dynamics, business strategies, or home organization, focusing on personal harmony is different. Ask yourself: What creates harmony in my body? What practices allow my mind and body to work in unison, igniting my soul and spirit?

It's about finding what resonates with you, what makes you feel aligned and at peace. So, let's explore these elements together and design a life that's not just lived but beautifully experienced.

And that’s it for this week! 

Esther