I am turning 37 next month, and have been reflecting on life and where it has taken me.  I’m not married, have no kids, and am working my a$$ off in corporate Canada.

I am not spending enough energy on the things that engage my heart & mind.

I neglect my dog and don’t spend enough time traveling, spending time with friends, family, and my dog, volunteering, golfing, and laughing.  (Alright, if you know me, you know I laugh a lot, but more doesn’t hurt!)  I find I don’t have time to do things that are good for me, like working out, cooking, and eating right.

My sister and I on our trip to Dublin

Am I where I thought I’d be at this point in my life?  Absolutely not!  Am I unhappy with where I am?

Absolutely not.

Sure, there are times when I think “Gee, it would be awesome to be (Cameron Diaz / Duchess Kate / my friend Lesley)” But then something happens (JT dumps her / paparazzi chase her / her job sucks) and I realize actually she is just a person who has ups and downs like I do.

I can’t think of anyone with a “perfect” life, and I’m generally pretty happy.  I love my job, my house, my dog, my family, and I have a great boyfriend.

Life hasn’t taken me here.

I’ve made choices throughout my life that have gotten me to where I am.

The things that I’m missing are things that I can change.  I can make different choices in order to focus on engaging my heart and mind.

Piper during a cottage vacation

My plan for 37:

• Come home from work earlier, at least 3 days per week. (baby steps)
• Laugh even more.
• Make more time for family, good friends, and Piper.
• Take a trip to Europe.
• Find a new volunteer gig.
• Join a new gym, and use it!

What choices are you making to engage your heart and mind and create a better life for yourself?