Do What You Love

*This photo has nothing to do with the post, I just like it!*

There are many aspects of my life I absolutely love. My marriage, being a dad, relationships with friends and family, my work, the list goes on and on. I have written and shared a lot lately about our family travels. I want to share a little about why I love my work.

For the past twenty-two years, I have been in service to people in one capacity or another. My career in counseling began in 1987 at a drug and alcohol treatment program in St.Louis called Crossroads. I spent three wonderful years there and grew up a lot. I then moved on to Atlanta to become the program director at Insight, of which I eventually became the owner. I also spent seven fantastic years in Phoenix as the owner of Pathway. I have since sold Pathway and moved back to Atlanta and all of the experiences I have had are valuable.

A few years ago I decided to write a book, Connected: The Art of Building Relationships, because I feel the knowledge I have gained in my counseling career has value to a broader range of people. I have also begun a speaking career and have gotten certified as a coach.

My point is this: I love what I get to do every day. I look forward to the challenge of finding ways to help people. I relish opportunities to learn how I can improve. I am passionate about discovering new tools that benefit my fellow humans on this strange and beautiful journey of life. I believe what I do brings value and I love sharing this with others. How do you feel about what you do?

2010: So Far, So Good

I realize the New Year has just begun, but:

• I am off for a western Caribbean cruise this weekend
• I just enjoyed an amazing holiday with friends and family, and
• Work is really good

In 2009 I committed myself to learning. I realize education never stops (except on Learn Nothing Day) but I have shifted my focus in 2010 to taking action. I really want to stretch myself and experience as much as I can.

So far, so good. I am facing a fear next week by doing my first ocean dive with my family. Diving is still new to me, and as excited as I am, I am still scared. BIG STRETCH.

I recently completed a coaching course, so now I am a certified coach. I will be building another part of my business which is another stretch.

I am also committed to some more speaking events this year. I love speaking and it is a lot of fun, but I am focusing more conscious energy to this area of my professional life. Say it with me now......STRETCH!

I am re-releasing my book, fresh with a new title, a new design, and super editing. I understand the business a little better now, so I am looking forward to what will happen with it. By the way, the book is Connected: The Art of Building Relationships, and it's pretty good.

Finally, my daughter will be eleven in a few weeks. WOW!!!!!! That is the quickest decade I have ever experienced. Wendy and I feel so lucky to live and experience life with Shelby. She is an amazing person and I look forward to what each day brings.

I hope you enjoy my little ramblings about my life, I certainly enjoy sharing them. So until next time, CARIBBEAN HERE WE COME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!