And just like that, we find ourselves at the end of another year. Time to look back, to take stock, to figure out what is going to be different and better about the year to come. I've always been a bit of a planner - perhaps it's the map-lover in me, but somehow knowing where you intend to go is a great comfort - even if you do veer off piste for a scenic detour or two. Comfort in knowing that there is, indeed, a plan.
I had a plan for 2016 - and then I caught sight of another road and it looked intriguing and I headed off on a detour, which turned out to be an unexpectedly big hill which I found myself hurtling down. And everything got faster and faster and I couldn't find my brakes for the longest time.
Finally, there was a lay-by where I found the courage to look around, and admit to myself that I didn't much care for where I was. That was tough. I don't like making mistakes and I'm not very keen on giving up either. But it turns out there was a gap in the hedge and the reality of scrambling back through was much less painful than I had feared it might be. And my original road was there, waiting for me. And it wasn't a rut. I'm not sorry I took my scenic detour this year, but I am pleased to be back in the driving seat on my own route.
When I contemplate the year ahead though, I'll admit to feeling a bit lost - the plans for moving forward seem slow to come. I've lost a bit of self-confidence - somehow I feel smaller, more vulnerable and less sure of my own decisions. I'm wary of the map and its limitless possibilities. perhaps it's good to just be still for a while and look around until the ground feels firmer underfoot. And be here a bit more - yes, that sounds like a plan enough for now.
This sounds a bit like my year 😊 With all good wishes for 2017.
Posted by: Lynn | 30 December 2016 at 22:50
Don't be afraid to make mistakes - I make them all the time and they are the by-product of experience. The first time it hurts like hell but one day you will want to jump in again and have fun doing something different. Start getting ready now for your next adventure!
Posted by: Alice C | 30 December 2016 at 23:46
Don't be afraid to make mistakes - I make them all the time and they are the by-product of experience. The first time it hurts like hell but one day you will want to jump in again and have fun doing something different. Start getting ready now for your next adventure!
Posted by: Alice C. | 30 December 2016 at 23:47
Good to see you back.
Posted by: Avril Horn | 31 December 2016 at 17:14
Well now, 2016 seemed to hurtle by didn't it? Sorry that you had that disappointment but you will find a new path and one that suits you.
It is so good to see you back in blogland and I hope it won't be too long before we see another post from you.
Happy 2017 - I hope it will be exciting.
Posted by: Toffeeapple | 31 December 2016 at 19:03
being here more works for me. and maybe just one bit of planning that involves meeting up with blog friends? x
Posted by: driftwood | 01 January 2017 at 10:37
That sounds very familiar - that road that looks so enticing. I think the plan of being here and waiting is a most excellent plan. My plan involves saying No.
Posted by: Jodie | 01 January 2017 at 23:22
So pleased that you're back. I love your blog and have really missed it. Actually, I'm very skeptical about planning too far ahead as it strikes me as just humans giving themselves the illusion of being in control and it just isn't like that.
Posted by: louise | 11 January 2017 at 10:39
The only reason I don't make many mistakes is because I never try anything new. I admire you for taking the plunge even if you had to get out of the water again. I'm still standing on the edge. Now that I see you are blogging again I wonder if I have made a mistake in stopping mine....
Posted by: Sue Scott | 19 January 2017 at 20:24