Am I lucky?

I had a conversation with some friends last night about the possibility of doing a piece of work, which I declined since it wasn’t right for me and where I am now. I realise how blessed I am that I can pick and choose what I want to do now - I nearly used the word lucky when writing that sentence but then realised I didn’t get here by chance.

I’ve pondered what I have done that has put me in this fortunate position and of course I could talk about hard work, making good decisions and financial planning – but in truth I’m not sure that would be right – well not in the way that would seem obvious.

Without a doubt I’ve worked hard, however much of that hard work has been to ensure I can “… be brave enough to be your true self.” as advocated by Queen Latifah. I’m very clear what is important to me and don’t get driven to meet others’ expectations but in fact find my own place of peace. This is beyond difficult in a world that bombards us with messages about what we should have or be or buy but I would argue although it’s not easy its fundamental to living in contentment.

I’ve made plenty of decision, both good and bad, but one of my best decisions has been to stop being afraid – not of noises in the middle of the night or walking down a dark alleyway, but of having to sit back and decide what is next. Life changes, different periods bring different opportunities and capitalising on that is in fact exciting. Last year a wise friend suggested to me that I sit and do nothing – something that for me was alien but I took that advice, eventually, and I am happy now that I did since it was fundamental to allowing me to take this leap into what is an exciting period of my life.

I have an amazing network of people around me – family and friends, professional colleagues. I can honestly say they are all exceptional and add to my world in a myriad of ways. That hasn’t happened by chance – I have, and continue, to invest in them. That investment has been paid back 100% and more. To be surrounded by people who care about you, understand your values and want the best for you is a blessing that should never be underestimated. It is easy enough to find people to walk alongside you when things go well – its however more important to have those people there when you really do need a friend. My investment therefore hasn’t been in stocks and shares but in building up this wonderful network of people who I know remain my constant place to find joy, strength and love – I am truly grateful for each and every one of them.

Sherry Peck

(www.sp-associates.org)