Simple things...

A weekend of sunshine; serious, 84 degree sunshine, with not a cloud in the sky or a breeze in the air. It was a weekend without structure, one of few as most seem to include cramming in a whole host of arrangements, plans, sports, socials and the like. But this weekend was random, unplanned and what a joy it was to indulge in such freedom; slowing down and allowing time to consider the greater picture of life and what is important.

So what does matter...status, money, potential? When the sun shines and the sky is blue, all that seems to matter is enjoying the simple things; the warmth of the sun on your face, the smell of freshly cut grass, the sound of children playing, the soothing rhythm of a train ride, ice cold gin and tonic with zesty lemon, a beautiful sunset...simple, very simple, but things we all enjoy. So, why don't more of us live the dream, give up the career, the house, the material, for a life of simplicity?

Well, I am starting to question this now and have been considering the concept all weekend, but like everyone else, Monday morning approaches, which means back to reality and back the daily grind of status, money, potential. Shame...as are we all that scared of letting go of what we perceive as important or has it gotten to the stage of what we own and desire ends up owning and consuming us? I guess it needn't be a choice, perhaps we can have it all; the career, the house, the material and still enjoy and share the simple things.

If it is one thing I have figured out this sunny weekend, it is that I need both; ongoing challenge and stimulation combined with zesty lemons, gin and sunsets!

'One's real life is often the life that one does not lead.'- Oscar Wilde

Decisions...

Well, life certainly does throw a lot of 'stuff' into the mix. So much to consider on a daily basis; decisions that affect people and places at work and at home. Each decision takes us down a slightly different path, until we make a another decision and then we meet the crossroads again and so on and so forth.

The last year has been full of 'crossroad' moments in all aspects of life; work, rest and play. I often find myself running through each scenario, wondering how I got there and where to go, only to find that after hours of debate (with friends and the voices in my own head!), that it is not so much about the decision you make, but more about accepting each decision.

We cannot control a situation, as whilst we make a decision about which direction we go in, so is everyone else for completely different reasons! I guess it is about staying true to yourself and ensuring that when you do reach the crossroads or a defining moment, that you define that moment and do not let that moment define you.

'A real decision is measured by the fact that you've taken a new action. If there's no action, you haven't truly decided.' - Tony Robbins