12 Comments
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Leslie Senevey's avatar

Such a good thing to reflect on. I too started my Substack and am writing personal, vulnerable stories for the first time. I've always been a writer but had never put my warts and all, this is me self out into the universe for all to see. It's been freeing, therapeutic and so rewarding. My mom's death a couple of years ago opened me up in a panicked (good kind of panic) way and propelled me to attack the question "If not now, when?" I retired from my 40 year dance career, started a Pilates practice that has helped my spine more than several years of physical therapy did, started a meditative practice that is manageable for me (I am a "Squirrel!" kind of girl), and most importantly let go of most (can't quite say all) of the fucks I have left to give about what other people think. Life. Is. Good.

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Nicole Giordano's avatar

This is wonderful, Leslie. Thank you for sharing it with me. I relate to the idea of trauma triggering reflection and change. For me, it was the realization that motherhood would not be possible. So the question became-- I am disenchanted with my work, my hope of being a parent won't be possible, so what the hell do I want for my life moving forward? I'm also right there with you about working through the fucks. I have a few more left but getting closer to none!

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Kelly Bunch's avatar

I intentionally took a much-needed break from work and walked away from my career after I got laid off. I started this substack, joined a writing group and a professional/personal development group, and have been slowing down to explore what my career 2.0 looks like. I also committed to being intentional with strength training. I'm so glad you (and Lou) brought this question to my attention. I had been feeling like I've been doing "nothing" since these things don't bring in income, so it's very satisfying to think of all the things I've intentionally done! Progress is about more than income (although income helps lol).

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Nicole Giordano's avatar

Yes, Kelly! You've done so much! 🙌 And I agree that it's really easy to feel like it's "nothing" when income isnt involved, I understand that sentiment completely. I'm so glad this question reminded you of everything you've done lately to improve your life.

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Leo in L.A.'s avatar

Jungian-based psychotherapy. 😊💕

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Lou Blaser's avatar

Hi Nicole. Bravo for identifying the change that you've intentionally made. I think part of what's hard about the question (as it was for me!) is that our brain searches for BIG momentous changes. It skips the small steps, or the ones that we're still in the middle of experiencing. I like asking questions, and I'm 💃🏻 this one inspired you to reflect and write about it! 🧡 🧡 🧡

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Nicole Giordano's avatar

P.S. I would like to call to attention the size of my paragraphs-- I think I only have a couple one liners in the entire piece! ::pats herself on the shoulder:: 😂

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Lou Blaser's avatar

👏🏼 👏🏼 👏🏼

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Nicole Giordano's avatar

Yes, I think you're right, Lou. Thanks for posting the question, it really got me thinking.

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Belma McCaffrey's avatar

I love this question! Like you, I think there are so many things. Also, as a coach I feel like I live and breathe this 😂 Thanks for sharing. So glad you're on Substack!

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Nicole Giordano's avatar

I think the important part of what you just said is that you're a coach. Most of us aren't and I believe that translates into many of us running on autopilot in more that we'd like to. To live with intention is a learned skill.

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Belma McCaffrey's avatar

Definitely a learned skill!

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