As many of you know, Stephen Covey, author of the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People passed away recently. I first read his book when I was a teen, and honestly it didn't make much of an impression. I wanted a quick fix to make school easier I think… and his book isn't a quick fix. It is a way of life. I decided to give it another go once I'd heard of his passing… it just seemed like the right thing to do to pay my respects. Well, I am glad I did! 

The 7 Habits are: 

1. Be Proactive

2. Begin with the End in mind

3. Put First things First

4. Think Win/Win

5. Seek First to Understand, then to be Understood

6. Synergize

7. Sharpen the Saw

The 7 Habits are a way to live that no only seems to help clarify 'what the heck am I doing' but also how to live life, better and in a way that feels more meaningful to you and the people around you. 

I have tried to do all the exercises, and I discovered I'm not really living in a way that accurately demonstrates my values. Not in a ‘bad’ or dramatic way... I'm living in Europe for a while and trying to pick what's next. I'm looking for jobs and considering expanding the business into Europe etc…. What I discovered, is that while I value adventure and spontaneity and living abroad, I don't feel like I'm dedicating enough of my time resources to my family and friends. Particularly my family… I haven't lived in the same state as my family for a considerable amount of time… and I think I'd love to be closer to them. I'd love to know my brothers, nephew and God daughter better. I'd love to be involved in their lives and love to be someone they felt they could count on.  

SO… I'm going to move home. Not immediately - I have made commitments here, and I plan to honor them. They are to good friends and still honor my values of adventure, friendship, loyalty and FUN! That said, I'm going to plan to head home in the fall… and I'm excited to do it. What might have once felt like moving backward in life… now has been reframed and feels like moving home.  Thanks Mr. Covey :)