Okay, I think it’s really important for all of us to do some soul searching. So many times, we get busy in our daily life and go through the same old routine without even thinking about it. We wake up, get ready, go to work, raise our children, make sure hubby is okay, clean the house, provide food, help the kids with their homework, check on elderly parents, take care of the pets… the list in endless. By the time you’re done with this, it’s already 11 o’clock at night.

I remember there was a time in my life when I had three jobs (had to pay off the school loans), needed to make ends meet, and the kids were still just babies. I don’t even think I had time to take a long shower simply to treat myself. Literally, my life was constantly on the run. I didn’t even have time to figure out what I could change about my life. It was just the way it was.

Through the years, I have gone a bit wiser (I think). I realized I had to have some “me time.” I have to do me! It’s so so important…for your own sanity. Trust me, I forced myself to take some time out for me. It could be half an hour walk or read a little before going to bed or watch a favorite TV show, etc. These days, though, I make an effort to do things I’ve always wanted to do. Life is short. And if not now, then when?

Although I am still working full time as a physical therapist, I have decided to pursue other dreams as well. For the past five years, I’ve been writing and actually published eight books (ninth on the way). Frankly, I’m pretty damn proud of myself about this. Was it easy? Certainly not! But I’ve always loved writing, and it’s actually very therapeutic for me. Also, most of my books have some type of message, and if I can make a difference in some of my readers’ lives, well, then I’ve accomplished my goal.

Traveling also is very important to me. I want to visit all over. I’m a huge nature lover, so my husband and I have picked up hiking. It’s a great way to exercise, stay fit, and it’s actually quite calming. I highly recommend this. Also, I love learning about different cultures around the world. Hence, traveling becomes very educational.

Exercising/fitness is important to me as well. For so many years, I’ve neglected this. Trying to raise kids and running around…well, there simply wasn’t any time. Plus, I would be exhausted if I ever got a moment to spare. But two of my kids are away at college now, so really, only my baby (the 13 year old) is home these days. This actually gives me more time. I’m determined to find time throughout the week to squeeze in some exercise. Honestly, as we age, staying healthy is imperative.

Why am I rambling on and on about all this? I just think we all fall into that “trap.” You know, the trap of the routine, daily life, and we forget about someone very important: ourselves. I think we need to look within ourselves and see what will make us happy. What is our passion? Please don’t neglect this. It’s never too late to do what you love. You don’t want to be that person twenty/thirty years down the road and be full of regrets. Don’t wait for tomorrow to hope things will get better. Make today be the day that will make you smile.

You do you!