While there are dozens of ways I could become a better advocate and community organizer, at the moment I'm focused on 5 key areas where I want to make the most improvement. 

1. Avoid side quests

2. Remember who was there for me in the beginning   

3. Recharge my intuition

4. Let go of anger

5. Don't let others define me

Do any of these thoughts resonate with you? Let’s dive deeper into what I mean by each point.

Staying on the Main Road: Why Avoid Side Quests?

In the pursuit of my biggest dreams, it’s all too easy for me to get sidetracked by smaller, seemingly enticing opportunities. These side quests, while sometimes beneficial, often pull me away from my main objectives. Staying focused on my primary goals requires discipline and a clear vision. After the initial excitement wears off, I realize that every detour delays my progress. By dedicating my time and energy to what I've set my heart on, I advance with what truly matters. This allows me to maintain momentum and increase my chances of success. So, when a distraction tempts me, I must remember my ultimate destination and stay the course.

Thanking the OGs: Showing Appreciation to Early Supporters

I am lucky my journey was uplifted by some dedicated individuals who believed in me from the very beginning. Showing appreciation for these early supporters is crucial, and creates an inner sense of cohesiveness. As time passes, sometimes the spark in these relationships starts to fade. I tend to second guess myself, worried I might have fallen out of the grace of these beloved people when we lose contact. I agonize over every weird or emotional thing I've ever done in front of them. 

Interestingly, a few of my elusive friends have randomly crossed paths with me, such as when I bump into a colleague at a coffee shop or receive an email from an old advisor. These experiences have been so positive they reaffirm that the act of reconnection is a deeply restorative and healing gesture. I want to take my appreciation to the next level by acknowledging my allies through handwritten notes, handmade gifts, or planning more intentional gatherings. By expressing my thanks, I can close the distance between us. Not only does this strengthen these valuable relationships, but also reflects the importance of loyalty. In this way I set a precedent for others who join my journey later to benefit from my acts of solidarity and fellowship.

Recharging My Intuition: Trusting My Inner Voice

In a world filled with noise and external pressures, I have noticed how much my inner voice has become diminished. Taking time to build up my connectivity with nature and spirit, and improving my self-confidence, are essential steps to strengthening my sixth sense. Sounds a little cooky? At this moment I'm reminiscing on past decisions where trusting my gut led to positive outcomes. When I am in harmony with myself and the environment, I've been able to predict events with ease. Over time, I’ve found that my instincts are often my best guide, leading me toward decisions that align with my true self and aspirations. I know I've come back to myself when I start to feel like life is glowing, my luck will never run out, and a jet stream of consecutive wins cleanses me with exhilaration and satisfaction. 

Is Life Better Without Anger?

Anger isn't a bad emotion. In the past anger has helped me make bold moves, stand up for others even when it's difficult, and never give up. But anger is more like a jet pack burning rocket fuel than it is a clean energy source. In short bursts, it cuts through stagnancy and bullshit. But after a while, if I don't let my guard down, the tension anger creates is exhausting.

Holding onto anger can be a significant burden for me, affecting both my mental health and how others perceive me. Letting go of this anger lightens my emotional load. People respect those who handle adversity with grace and composure because we naturally seek out the calm in every storm, myself included. I had to learn from experience that letting go of anger also results in being taken more seriously. Releasing resentment clears my mind and creates space for positive, constructive thoughts. This shift not only improves my well-being but also enhances my effectiveness in both personal and professional relationships.

Defining Myself: Embracing My True Identity

It’s easy for me to fall into the trap of letting others define who I am. Even my identity as an artist originates from the positive feedback I received as a child because my observational drawing abilities generated attention and praise. However, true fulfillment comes from embracing my own identity. In this case, the people who encouraged me to stick with art were correct that it is a natural fit for me. But as I get older, I've had more frequent run-ins with others' judgments of my unconventional lifestyle, appearance, and character flaws. A natural part of getting older is developing tough skin, and I'm typically able to traverse criticism and invasive questions without much of a hang-up.

I'm mostly curious to see if my quality of life would increase if I set more defined boundaries with those who attempt to impose their expectations on me. In a sense, going a step beyond reminding myself that I am the author of my own story, but also making sure others know. Will I be met with understanding nods, or awkward silence? I'd like to believe that confidently embracing my uniqueness contributed more beneficially to a life that is authentically mine, than allowing others to tell me about myself based on how I look, or their own projections and misunderstandings.

Which of these concepts resonates with you? Hopefully, my perspective brings you a refreshing new way of thinking about something. I would love to hear where we have common ground, or where we mark our differences in philosophy. 

In solidarity, Bri