“I don’t think we realize just how fast we go until you stop for a minute and realise just how loud and how hectic your life is, and how easily distracted you can get.” ― Meg Ryan

The title of this blog is Women Making Strides: Be a Leader in Your Own Life. But what does that mean? Isn’t everyone the leader in their own life?

I would argue “No.” Some people let life happen to them, never thinking about what they want and what is their purpose in life. We all have free will, but not everyone uses it.

Some people might feel like a victim rather than a leader because they face major challenges in their lives. I don’t pretend to know the best way to handle such situations. We each must decide how to react to the challenges we face. Some might see a counselor or church leader, others might join a support group.

Leeton Breast Cancer Support Group

In any case, in leading our lives we need to start with the basics, taking care of ourselves. Yesterday, I had a headache all day. In the evening, I sat in the chapel at church unable to be receptive because of the headache. I finally realized what was causing it—dehydration. Earlier in the day, I was preoccupied with my work in the parish library. Then I made dinner at home, then went back to the church for chapel. In my busyness, I forgot to take care of me and drink enough water. Do you see how taking care of ourselves physically can enrich our spirituality?

A person might spend their time watching TV or using social media. But excessive amounts of these and other behaviors can prevent us from leading active lives. We can overcome bad habits and make different choices. I spend too much time on the computer. Recently I signed up for an app to limit the amount of time I’m on Facebook. I will clear out emails this week and then will use the app to also limit the time I spend on emails. I’ve come up with a short list of things to do instead of jumping on Facebook or checking my email. I can take a short walk, sit outside with a cup of tea, garden, etc.

A big part of how our days go is up to us. Recently I had two occasions where I’d be with friends, and our conversations in the past have sometimes been superficial, which felt unsatisfying to me. I thought about what I’d like us to talk about, what I’d like to learn from the other person. At each of these gatherings, I asked what I wanted to know. This was much more satisfying than making small talk.

Philadelphia Folk Festival

Leading one’s own life includes enjoying life as well, and sometimes we need to be proactive to do that. This summer, my husband and I have been going to many outdoor summer concerts. We enjoy being outside in good weather, listening to music. Before summer ends, we intend to eat outside more and go to another festival. What might you do to enjoy the rest of summer?

No one else can run our lives, and why would we want them to? Take time to pause and think about your life, and give God a chance to guide you. Perhaps sit outside in quiet or write your thoughts in a journal, checking in with your body, mind, and spirit. Maybe reflect on what you want to do and how you want to be. That is being a leader in your own life.

Here are some questions to reflect on.

How do you want your life to be? Are you living the life you want to lead? Are there changes you’d like to make?