a few thoughts

We just got back from our vacation in Grand Cayman and I find traveling for leisure always makes me reflective. Maybe it’s the change of routine, scenery, or just the additional time we get to think. I often wish I could get this perspective back home but that’s one thing I’ll be forever trying to work on.

Here’s a few of my thoughts for today:

1. There are so many interesting people in this world. And if you just reach out you can learn so many great things. Between our hotel staff – which employs people from over 80 different countries – to the island residents, they all have such interesting backgrounds and stories to tell. Take the time to reach out to people who cross your path. You’ll be happy you did.

2. Try new things. You don’t have to go parasailing or skydiving. Maybe it’s just a sailing lesson or turtle steak (yes we did). It’s hard for me – with a little extra anxiety and worry than most – to get out of my comfort zone. But when I do, I feel so proud and those decisions usually end up being the most memorable.

side note: we visited a place in the middle of the ocean called stingray city. A sandbar where (tame) stingray come to feed. For those who know me, ocean creatures larger then the palm of my hand are way out of my comfort zone. And ones that have a venomous spike as a tail – even more so. But this was by far the most amazing thing we have done. They were huge. And crawling all over us. We held them, fed them (!) and swam with them. I haven’t seen my 3 teenage kids (and husband) laugh so hard. Good for me!

3. Be confident. I’m not sure how to best explain this one and it rings true for every day but I see lots of people lacking self confidence. Put that bathing suit on, go without makeup, act silly. Just be you. Confidently.

4. Have a plan but be ready and happy to change it. The best dinner we had was a last minute decision but we were all in and it was a blast.

5. Be polite. This should be #1. We found most people are polite and courteous but we always encounter a few who aren’t. Teach by example, to your kids and others around you. Politeness is contagious so hopefully others will follow your lead.