Over the course of the last 6-8 months I have learned some very valuable life lessons.
When I found out I was pregnant in June I was shocked at how quickly my priorities shifted. It was like a switch went off immediately that taught me to not sweat the small stuff and focus on those things that are most important- like friends and family. My priorities became more balanced. My current employer always talks about and places a lot of value of work-life balance but before this summer I will admit that my scale definitely tipped more towards the work side of things. Don't get me wrong, I still have a huge passion for the work I do but I understand now the importance of calling it a day in order to get home to family and friends and enjoy my "off" time.
Then in August when I was diagnosed with breast cancer I learned that it was ok to put myself first sometimes. I can remember as far back to my high school days this has been a hard thing for me to do. I would always place my homework on hold in order to finalize details for a group project or Student Council event. Then in college, history repeated itself. I have always been drawn to extra curricular activities and if that meant sacrificing my sleep or things I wanted to do for myself I did. Now enter into my professional life. As I entered into the advertising agency world, the patterns I created in life continued to be reinforced by my daily activities. My clients came first. They paid the bills and I was there to provide the most excellent service I could on behalf of my agency. Plus, the work was energizing and exciting. Who wouldn't want to manage projects, pieces of global business, and cross-promotions for such Fortune 100 companies like Intel, Microsoft, Best Buy and Coca-Cola or run first of its kind promotions to deliver $10,000 cash with your pizza right to you door for Domino's Pizza? Or how about building a clothing line from the gound up or building a master brand for Monsanto?
After my diagnosis I realized the work will always be there and my health wouldn't necessarily. I needed to put my doctor's appointments and treatments first in order to get healthy for Emma, Rett and my family and friends. And it has paid off so far. As I prep myself for my day of surgery and recovery, I will again need to remind myself that is is ok to focus on me in order to recover quickly so I can get back to living my full life with my new family.
Take time out today to spend with your families and don't forget a little "me" time too!
Love,
Jenna
thank you for this reminder. it is so true. btw, jenna, i am four months pregnant and thinking of you. i already have one child so it is definitely different than your situation but i still think about you often and wonder if that could be me? and why COULDN'T it be me? you are and have been so strong and i encourage you to continue to do your best. i can only imagine that it's not as easy and fun as you make it sound. you are an inspiration through it all!
ReplyDeleteKristine- congratulations!How exciting to be welcoming your second baby into the world. All I would recommend is to have your OBGYN follow through on your annual exams even during your pregnancy. I go thru my ups and downs but it is much more fun to have a positive spirit and outlook. Take care!
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