A little clarification on that stressed-out thing

As I recently re-read my last column, as I often do, evidently because I enjoy beating myself up, I noticed it sounded a bit more...extreme than I intended.

It sounded like I was so stressed out I was at the end of my rope. I’m not. I don’t even think my rope actually ends, I haven’t found the end yet, anyway.

For me, deadlines and long lists of things to do are motivating. Stress gives me nervous energy, and sometimes that’s what it takes to get things done, at least for me.

I’m happiest with a daily list, tasks written down so I can see them and enjoy the satisfaction of marking a few lines through them when they are complete. Sometimes I even say, “Ha! Take THAT, task list!” aloud in my office. You can probably verify that with Nate.

A list gives me focus, clear objectives, and it rewards me by allowing me to strut around like a pirate, swishing my imaginary sword at each completed task, er, booty. Arrrrrr.

Speaking of awkward segues, it’s super-important to like yourself, to be content with whoever you turned out to be. If you’re not, then become that person you see as you in your mind. A person you are proud of. When I complete a whole list and mark out that last item (noowwwww the segue makes sense...), I feel like giving myself a hug and posing for a picture with my arm around myself, proud smile plastered on one of my faces.

I didn’t move back here so I could fail. And I won’t. I may make a few (sorry...) mistakes along the way, but every morning I remind myself of the potential of a new day.

Tomorrow is another day to win. So start winning, time is running out...

Patti is Editor of the Greene County Daily World. She loves to laugh and also loves kitties and wishes they could laugh, too. She’s kind of weird (you may have noticed,) but has a heart of gold. If you would like to share a story, give away some cookies or just make a friend, she can be reached at pattigcdw@gmail.com.