Love the Life You Are in

Love hands

The theme for this blog “Love the Life You Are in (Living Bravely)” really struck a chord with me when I read it.

Last August, very suddenly and unexpectedly I lost my gorgeous Mum. I was on holiday and got a call to say come home quickly. By the time I arrived back in Dublin my lovely Mum was on a life support. My life changed forever that day! The months that followed have been tough – some days good, some days bad, but as the time has passed I am starting to hear my Mum’s words echo in my ear – “live your life Paula, don’t waste a day, don’t look back, and grab every opportunity that comes your way”.

I am a bit of a comfort creature and must admit, prefer living in the safety and security of the things I know. So with my Mum’s words ringing in my ears, I decided to set myself some goals in January – ones that scared me and would take me right out of my comfort zone! The first goal I set was to conquer my fear of water. I can swim but am a nervous swimmer. I am one of those people who swims with their head about 4 feet out of the water. The thought of someone pushing me in or having to put my head under the water would cause me to have a heart attack!

So in the spirit of ‘Living Bravely’ I booked a private lesson with a swimming instructor. As I drove up for that first lesson, I found myself using all the techniques I would use with a client. I asked myself out loud (I was in the car so at least no one could hear me) what would be the benefit of achieving my goal, when was the last time I did something that terrified me, and how did I feel afterwards. By the time I arrived at the centre I was actually quite relaxed and nervously excited. Roll on 45 minutes and the end of the lesson – I was touching the bottom of the pool with my eyes open!! I cannot put into words how good I felt. My confidence was up, I felt totally exhilarated and was so proud of myself. When I booked my lesson, the instructor told me that when we conquer one fear it can open up other areas of our lives. I know now I can draw on this experience, and am confident that the next time I am faced with a terrifying goal – I can do it – and I really do believe that!!

When we lose someone so special our world changes. Nothing is ever quite the same again. But just as my Mum would have wanted, I am starting to live my life again. I am so privileged and grateful to be able to do a job I love that gives me a purpose every day I wake up. Being self employed as a coach has its challenges and without doubt tests me at times. But I know I am one of the lucky ones – I love my life and I love my career. And when I have one of those days, maybe the phone isn’t ringing as much as I would like it to be, I just remember, I am exactly where I am meant to be right now and that is good enough!!

Paula Hanlon bio