3 things I wish I would have known 10 years ago…
No worries, this post is not a sob story of regret.
This is not about looking back and wishing I would have done things differently, as I believe the experiences of life — good, bad, and ugly shape us into the person we were meant to be.
All that being said, there are still quite a few days that I would love to travel back in time and give my younger self some advice.
With all the advances and investments in mobility technology, I dearly hope that “transporter” technology is not too far out on the horizon. In all the episodes of Star Trek I’ve watched, being “energized” seems just as possible in the near future as many of the new innovations I saw at CES this year.
I thought I would take this opportunity to start organizing my thoughts so when that day comes I’ll be ready. . .
#1 — Invest in your faith, and God will always be there to give you strength and direction.
Life over the next 10 years will be full of twists, turns, and gut wrenching moments. The time you spend in prayer, reading the Bible, and studying the word will be your greatest investment and source of peace and courage in the storms of life.
Psalm 119:105 states: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Those words will take on more meaning than ever as your next adventures unfold as a mother, wife, and leader. Lean in to your faith more every day.
#2 — The people you meet are more important than the things you do.
It does not matter what program you launch, app you create, or grant you receive, the most important thing is the partnerships that are created and people that touch your life. Take as much time as you possibly can to invest energy into the conversations and moments in life that join us as human beings.
Have the extra cup of coffee or order the desert, and share about not just transactions, but significant others, childhood memories, dreams, and failures. The countless emails and proposals will not hold a candle to those experiences and conversations that will lead to lifelong friendships that will transcend any app.
#3 No matter how busy you think you are, don’t forget your children and husband come first.
Mother Teresa is often quoted as saying, “If you want to make a difference in this world, go home and love your family.” The next 10 years will be full of demands that will take you around the world, and regardless of the time zone, your children and spouse will always need you. You must not take for granted their love, attention, and sacrifice.
Take the time to say good night, tell them about your day, ask them about theirs. As you pour into them, they will pour into you and give you life, laughter, love and joy.
Everything else is just details…
