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Here,ClassPassshares 5 big lessons on happiness.
Todor Tsvetkov / Getty Images
Every personality test I ever took confirmed this (ESTJ, for anyMeyers Briggsjunkies out there).
Every big decision I ever made reflected it as well.
I wasnt wrongthose characteristics are definitely part of me, and probably will be forever.
But it wasnt until my 30s that I realized I wasnt bound by them.
So I ripped it up.
I signed up for amarathoneven though it terrified me.
I sang karaoke in front of a packed room.
It all felt risky and unfamiliar, but it also felt like me.
A different version of me, one that isnt bound by an imaginary contract that no longer serves me.
Not enough time, not enough energy, not strong enough, not fast enough, not possible enough.
If I couldnt picture myself as the final product, I avoided even making an attempt.
I learned the beauty of just start.
I am a writer; I love words.
And, like most women (people?
), I love to be told I love you.
Sometimes it feels like I dont hear it often enough, or like the words are an obligatory gesture.
When my son wants me to watch his trampoline trick for the 87th time?
Its because my validation means the world to him, because he loves me.
When my Boston-qualifying marathoner friend offers to run with me at my 10-minute-mile pace?
Because she loves me, in her way.
Ive spent countless hours and energies avoiding scary situations.
A funny thing happened in the weeks following that marathon I ran, though…I missed my fear.
But it hadnt been.
All that fear had actually been a really valuable part of the whole experience.
It shone a light on my insecurities and helped me know myself better.
It pushed me to commit fully to the task at hand.
It made me admit my vulnerability in the midst of my strength.
It wasnt always a pleasant feeling, but it was an invaluable teacher.
I accept the fear now.
I am a working mom, usually behind on at least two deadlines at any given moment.
There is always work to be done.
To my family, to my work, to my friends, to myself.
So sometimes the house can stay messy while I go for a sunset trail run.
A flexible work task can get postponed while I check out the newest happy hour in town.
All the babysitting favors can get cashed in for a weekend at the beach.
Originally Written by Anna Quinlin,ClassPass.
