Summer of Self-Improvement

{image via Whole Living}

Hello, friends! I can’t believe I have been absent from EADL for so long. Back in March, I turned thirty, which, to be honest, was a bit traumatic for me. Although I am happily married and live in a lovely house with an adorable dog, as I transitioned into my thirties, I couldn’t help but think of all the things I haven’t accomplished yet. On the top of my list: no kids and no career path, two things that, when I turned twenty, I was sure I would have by the time I turned thirty.

When I was twenty, I also never anticipated I would become a military wife. Life is funny like that. My officer husband is now deployed — again — and I’ve decided to take advantage of our time apart and make this the Summer of Self-Improvement. I need to learn how to remedy (or move past) the things that bother me, and I want to get to know myself a little bit better. That means indulging my interests and pursuing my hobbies. On the agenda for the next couple of months:

• Learn how to meditate
• Take up yoga
• Practice photography
• Create a writing/blogging schedule
• Re-decorate the bedroom
• Cut down on clutter/Get organized
• Watch less TV/Read more books
• Hire somebody to redesign my business logo/website
• Cook well-balanced meals for myself

My first goal is to learn how to meditate. I’ve been advised to start practicing mindfulness and living in the moment so that I don’t reside in a constant state of worry while my husband is away. I’ve never been able to sit quietly with a clear mind; my thoughts are constantly racing. I imagine that a guided meditation CD might be a good place to start. Have you ever tried one?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on meditation. Are you able to practice mindfulness on a daily basis? Please share your experiences!