Lessons Learned in Life

2013 Lessons Learned in Life: Ahh Haa Moments, Memories and More….

It’s early morning; my house is quiet as I sit in the final glow of Christmas 2013. A few open gifts remain scattered under the Christmas tree; left behind are for me to put away like socks and books. The important things have been put away or packed into a duffle bag to return to college and the normality of life. It seems that just a few days ago life was filled with the excitement and anticipation of Christmas and all that the holiday would bring. Now it’s over; gone like the bag of wrapping paper sitting at the curb for the garbage truck to take away. It seems that it takes forever for the holidays to arrive and in a mere blink it’s over. So as I sit alone sipping coffee and reflecting not only on the events of this holiday season but of the past year I am in awe of the many changes that have taken place; changes that have settled deep within my soul leaving me looking forward to even more changes and challenges in the coming year.

It seems that the more birthdays I have the quicker time seems to zip by; 2013 was no different. This past year has not only taught me some pretty important lessons but has also brought about some pretty profound changes in my life sometimes bringing me to my knees and other times filling my spirit with joy. To say the least 2013 has helped me become a new version of myself; a dear friend suggested I had become Karla 2.0.

So what has K2 lessons learned in life this year that has given meaning and brought life into focus? I’ve decided to share what I consider to be my top “ahh haa” moments of the year; I share in no particular order.

My 2013 Lessons Learned in Life

Old friendships are simply fantastic. Being connected to our past through long ago friendships brings a deep richness to our lives. Having childhood friends walk the life journey with us as adults not only brings familiarity but a sense of belonging and connection between what was what is and what will be.

Love is complicated and simple at the same time. The concept of loving one another seems simple enough; however, life happens and quite often muddies the water a bit. Love is not just a feeling that we experience, it’s a way of life. In order to be loved we must love not only ourselves but others without condition. Love is love; and it’s a beautiful thing. I realize that all lessons learned in life revolves around love. Loving oneself, loving other people, loving life…

Sometimes even the most complicated relationships leave the deepest imprints on our hearts. Having had a rocky relationship with my mother in law for many years I am grateful for the last two years we had together and am sad we didn’t have more. When she passed away in June I wasn’t prepared for the hole she would leave behind in my heart; I miss her deeply.

Laughter is necessary; not the occasional giggle. I’m talking about the tears rolling down your cheek nearly pee in your pants kind of laugh that takes your breath away and leaves you feeling energized and exhausted at the same time. Laughter brings people together, and increases happiness and intimacy. Laughter also triggers healthy physical changes in the body. Humor and laughter strengthen your immune system, boosts your energy level, diminishes pain, and protects you from the damaging effects of stress. Being able to laugh and make others laugh is a true gift; one that should be shared as often as possible.

Sometimes the truth, while necessary, hurts. It’s one of the lessons learned in life that is hard to accept but we should. If someone cares enough to tell you the truth you must be willing and open hearted enough to accept it. Working through the hurtful truth will not only encourage you to face reality but will strengthen your relationship with others.

I cannot control everything; I can only control myself. Staying focused on the things I can control and change is essential to positive productive living. Worrying over what others are doing or thinking is a waste of time; time wasted cannot be gotten back.

Change is inevitable. Nothing in this life will stay the same; and that’s a good thing. Learning the embrace life’s changes whether good or not so good is important for maintaining a healthy mind, body and soul. Do not be afraid to also be the change in this world.

Life is a journey that should be enjoyed along the way. All too often we find ourselves rushing to get from point A to point B and not taking time to enjoy the time in between. Be in the moment. Breathe deep. Exhale slowly. Close your eyes and listen to life happen around you. Savor the journey along the way; it’s actually the best part.

Self-care is a must. Taking care of our complete self is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself. Nurturing you mind, body and soul will allow you to live the best life you can. Learning to make healthy choices that include, diet, exercise and relationships is vital to one’s overall quality of life. Accept that you’re beautifully flawed and embrace it. This is a lesson that I learned a bit late into my life journey and while I am sorry it took me so long I am so thankful that it’s a lesson that I will be taking with me into 2014.

The past cannot be changed; there are no “do overs”. Dwelling on what happened in your past will drag you down and suck the life out of the present. While some things from our past must be dealt with it is important that we deal with it, put it away, let go and move on. Spending energy on something that cannot be changed or undone is a complete waste of time. In the movie The Lion King the beloved warthog Pumbaa tells his good buddy Timon “you gotta put your behind in your past” Of course he meant put your past behind you but the sentiment is the same. Shed the past like a wool sweater on a hot day; get excited about what’s happening in the present and anticipate the future.

As you welcome in the New Year I encourage you to make this your best year yet. Reflect on your lessons learned in life. Do what makes you happy. Live your life to its absolute fullest. For me, as I say farewell to 2013 I look forward (never backward) to the many changes taking place within my own life. As I continue on in this journey I know that there will be difficult times along the way and I may stumble, however, I will continue to move forward making sure to remember my lessons learned in life from 2013 all the while learning more lessons in the New Year. Staring at the old year in the rear view mirror of life, I welcome the New Year with my eyes and heart wide open ready to celebrate and become the new me…Karla 2.0. 2014…let’s do this!

Peace,
K2

I am proud to introduce a new column to Madame Deals! I think we all need a touch point a place we can go to be inspired. Karla is my children’s teacher, a good friend, and a person with a heart of gold. I hope that her words will inspire you to do more. We are only as good as the people we surround ourselves with. It is important to listen with your heart and proceed with your eyes open. Enjoy!

Read more Karla’s Korner , also please visit Karla’s Lifetime Moms page and read her articles.

Check out Karla’s 24 Day Advocare Challenge updates!

What are your lessons learned in life for 2013? Share it with us below!