Step One

First thing's first - where do I start?

I had been pondering for a while what I wanted to accomplish with this path to self-discovery and what I hoped to see in myself as I worked on becoming the best possible version of me. 

I decided that I wanted to set goals and actually reach them.  None of this setting lofty goals and having them all spin around out there in the abyss of my mind - but actually set step by step expectations for myself so that I would actually do something about them.  I realized that I get overwhelmed easily.  I have to break things down.  I have so many things I want to do that I just get overwhelmed and don't know where to start or how to attack them.  So, I just do nothing.

Not anymore.  I am writing them down.These are my goals (and/or list of things that I have needed to get done FOREVER and can never seem to make myself finish).  It is a combination of talents or interests I would like to pursue as well as projects I have started and never completed.  I am just writing down the broad goal or desire now, then will work on breaking them down into more digestible pieces later.  So here they are, in no particular order.

• Learn how to sew (So far I have made bags for the kids to take toys to church - my next project is to make capes for the kids.  Eventually I want to learn how to sew dresses, skirts, curtains, etc.)
• Learn about photography (I am very interested in photography.  I keep telling myself I am going to learn all of the technical skills and information, but still have yet to do so)
• Make a 2-week dinner menu of healthy meals (this is a part of our general goal of eating healthy, fresh meals - we will be consulting with a dietitian within the next few months)
• Turn my 2009 blog into a book (The blog is already done - I just have to format it and order it - come on Alicia!)
• Scan all of my old photos and keepsakes (this is quite the undertaking - probably why I have never gotten around to it - boy it will be nice to get rid of all of those boxes)
• Finish Weston's scrapbook and start Natalie's
• Finish unpacking and organizing our bedroom (our bedroom has yet to be "completely" unpacked since we have been married!!!)
• Become a better pianist and teacher
• Begin my family history

So, do achieving these help me to discover who I am?  Do they help me better answer my most dreaded question?  Perhaps not, but I will realize I can finish things I start and I can develop talents and interests that will bring satisfaction.

While working on this "exercise" I couldn't help but remember a scripture.  It is found in Matthew 6:33 and again in 3 Nephi 13:33.  It reads "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."  My first and foremost goal instantly became clear:

• Strengthen my relationship with my Father in Heaven

Certainly my Father in Heaven knows me better than anyone else.  After all, I am His daughter and He has known me intimately for a really long time!  As I diligently work to do good, master patience, humility, charity, and service; as well as read the scriptures daily, pray, and do all the other things I need to be doing, I know I will be blessed.  I know I will find an even greater joy in my family and in all of my endeavors.  I will find those extra things in life that will bring me satisfaction, joy, and a sense of completion.