Happy Aloha Friday!

 As we head into the weekend, sharing a few of my most powerful takeaways from mentors over the years:

1. Removing self-judgement from your life will greatly benefit you. As we live in a world of 'perfection' -> everything from fake bodies selling clothing on apps to posting that 'perfect' Instagram photo, taking pressure off yourself for eating greasy McDonald's french fries is ideal. Especially, if you've got a car full of crying kids and a high total stress load. Not trying to 'lose weight' during the holidays - well, that will keep you sane (and yes, I'm talking especially to you busy working moms!) While I appreciate a nutritious diet, life's obstacles and challenges may not align with always eating my most nutrient-dense foods, so I don't ever feel bad - even if I eat nothing but sweets for a day! Hey, it can also be fun to do that.. sugar-crash for sure, but still, who doesn't want to really eat the entire large chocolate chip cookie. I decided over four years ago to love my body no matter and while I appreciate my lean, mean ultra-trail running body, I also appreciate my body as a tired mom, holding it together, with 10 extra pounds. 
   
   
2. Don't ever be afraid to learn something new. If you don't know something, embrace humility, set ego aside and try it. No matter how old you are! It's truly never too late. With humility, often there can be an abundance of laughter, if you're brave enough to poke fun at yourself. [As I write this, I think about a photo me attempting surfing at Carpinteria State Beach (in Cali) 3 1/2 years ago... I felt like a fool at times (given I'd never tried surfing before!) but there I was learning new skills, fumbling in the waves. And with my son watching (and also trying something new, as he also took lessons!), he could see yes, mama, can steadily finish an an Ironman Triathlon in 12 hours 20 minutes, but she also can splash and laugh in the waves at herself. Since the beginning, I've raised my young son to have positive interaction with all sports (no intense pressure)... as these positive experiences/approach led him to find his own passion, focused play with soccer and today he's one lean, mean team player!]
   
   
3. Challenge your belief system. When we are children, we have zero control over what the adults do in our lives. Many of our belief systems about the world are more or less cemented by age 6. Keep in mind, you can change your mind at any time and many of us not only make excuses for ourselves (as adults), but for others. Prior to learning how to swim in late 2011, I always told myself "I'm not a swimmer. I can't do a triathlon". But my near 30-year old foraged self-talk changed the dialogue with: "No, you can learn!" so I jumped in a pool with competitive, seasoned Masters swimmers (forgoing expensive lessons) and here I am 13 years later with numerous triathlon and open water swim finishes under my belt. As an adult, it's your responsibility to change beliefs and align with your true self. This can be a tough pill to swallow, I know! Especially, as many beliefs are passed down, along with generational trauma! But consider asking yourself "What is the alternative?" Succumb to a less par life, because changing (focusing/upgrading yourself) may 'bother' or upset some people? It's your life - remember that. 
   
   
4. Life is about harmony, not balance. Almost ten years ago, I sat on a Bauman College career panel in Berkeley, CA and discussed this concept in detail with a fellow graduate, Helge. Some of the best things in life, come about when it seems 'out of balance'. If you're in a relationship, one partner may need 4 intense months to life a project off the ground - cool. Then vice versa. Or maybe not. Staying connected is essential in relationships and recognizing that 'balancing' hours and time, especially when you've got a family, is important in the long run. Sharing common goals, beliefs and systems, especially when you've found a solid partner in life is key in healthy relationships - as I've commonly observed in many relationships.

Wishing you a wonderful, sunny weekend!

With Aloha,

Heidi