How fast the time goes! It was on this very day 18 years ago that I took that fateful step backward though an open trap door. In the days and weeks following my accident, if someone would have told me about the amazing future I would come to have, I wouldn’t have believed them. I still look back in astonishment; I can see many points during my journey when I was tempted to go left, but instead went right. Many twists and turns and moments when I felt lost; but isn’t that how it is for all of us? Despite it all, I found my way and I know I’m on the right path and exactly where I’m supposed to be!
I don’t look upon this day with sadness but with a grateful heart. I’ve learned so much in these past 18 years; hundreds of valuable lessons that have shaped my life and made me the woman I am today. These lessons have given me content for my presentations to uplift audiences across the country. They’ve inspired posts to my Facebook page. They’ve served as topics for entire articles here on my blog.
To commemorate this important anniversary, I thought it would be fun to compile a list of what I believe to be the most important lessons I’ve learned since my accident. 18 life lessons formulated over the past 18 years. Perhaps one will resonate with you today or bring you through a difficult time in the future. If one touches
your heart today, I would love for you to share it in the comments below or post it to my Facebook page.
Don’t settle. In love, life, careers, or relationships… don’t settle for anything less than what we deserve (What do we deserve? See #2).
We deserve better than we think we do.
Plans change. A rainy day, snow in October, a layoff, the loss of a loved one, or a step through an open trap door… all things that change our plans. We need to remember that just because they were OUR plans doesn’t mean they were the ultimate plan for our life. Trust in God that everything will work out for the best.
Gratitude is the best gift you can give yourself. There is always something to be thankful for.
Most of the things that we think are big deals at the time really aren’t. Learn to see the difference. And don’t waste time on worry or stress.
Sometimes life sucks. But we need to hold on through the not-so-good parts to allow the good parts to manifest.
Surround yourself with people who love and support you.
We are stronger than we think. You truly don’t know how much you can handle until you have no choice.
Life is so short. Each day is a gift and it should be enjoyed.
We don’t love ourselves near enough. We are perfect despite our imperfections. We are worthy, and we are amazing.
The most important relationship in our lives is the relationship we have with God. He is real. He is good. He is faithful.
Don’t get stuck in the blame game. You are in charge of your own life and it is up to you to make smart choices.
Miracles are real and are all around us, however, we only see or notice a fraction of them. Open your eyes and see life’s miracles, big and small.
Regret is a total waste of time. We can’t change yesterday but we can change tomorrow.
Not everyone likes me… and I don’t have to like everyone. But we can always be respectful and kind.
Don’t wait for happiness. Be happy where you are now. Attitude is everything.
Little is huge. It’s the little things that can make all the difference. Appreciate the little things.
No matter what situation you’re in there is always hope. The best is yet to come.