Whew! So that's done...
October 13, 2011 It was fun making my Life List, but now the hard part starts: trying to make this stuff happen. Obviously this is a life list, so I'm not trying to do everything at once. But I'm pretty excited to have named experiences I'd like to have and skills I'd like to learn.
Somebody pointed out to me that a couple of the list items rely a bit on others. I actually considered the same thing when making the list, but I figured a couple pipe dreams were healthy. I guess there are different types of goals and dreams, and I've combined one or two of the whimsical kind with the kind I can do for myself (to varying degrees). Someone saying "Oh, you have a whimsical dream that is in my power to make a reality for you" definitely relies heavily on that person granting my wish, but I think a couple dreams that rely on the kindness of others are a good thing, as long as I haven't made a whole list of wishes or gifts.
I am definitely willing to accept help along the way. The list represents skills and habits I want to learn, as well as adventures and experiences I'd like to undertake and encounter. Conquering my tendencies toward isolation is probably at least as important--if not moreso--to my development and health than making sure I can accomplish every piece myself. Maybe instead of dreading anyone finding out I need help, while weirdly simultaneously waiting to be saved, I can learn to strike a balance. Is that crazy talk?
In the spirit of striking a balance, I included two things I have already accomplished--singing in a band, and celebrating Oktoberfest in Munich. I tend to be too hard on myself, feeling like I'm starting from scratch now, like I've wasted my whole life up until this point. When I was 9 I felt like I'd already missed my chance to accomplish anything, which I know is crazy, but that's my nature. Freakishly unattainable perfectionism. So admitting that I've already done some things I'm thrilled about--experiences I would add to my list at any point in my life--is like a little pat on the back, and a reminder that I am continuing my life journey, and building on past experiences and skills (which I do have) not just beginning it.
Okay, I've probably stretched this list thing out over as many posts as possible (Blogtoberfest win!). More kitty pictures or similar in the future.
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Reader Comments (2)
I also have the same perfectionism issue. After accomplishing something, I immediately start thinking of all of the other things that I haven't done, but I'm working on being satisfied in the moment. Good work giving yourself a head-start with your accomplishments:)
Thank you! Yes, I tend to think that if I have been able to do something, it must not be very difficult or impressive, whereas everyone else's accomplishments are so special and amazing. Sigh. I too am working on being satisfied in the moment. Thanks for stopping by!