My dog died on Sunday. She was only seven years old.

To say the least, this has been a very challenging year. Very.

In speaking with my coach about this and just how I’ve been feeling in general, he said something that really resonated:

“Jeremy, sometimes you need a real extreme to wake up and make changes.”

Meaning, did I cherish the time with my dog enough? Have I done all that I need to do to make this year the best possible? What behaviors have I continued to exhibit that keep the veil of success down, rather than showing me what I can do?

How can this year be great? And next?

It has been very easy for me to focus on how things HAVE gone instead of realizing how things WILL go if I believe it, focus on it, and let go of all the past noise.

As I said to him, “This has been one of the worst years I have ever had, personally and professionally.”

To which he replied, “Until now.”

So, I choose to make the year great. I choose to cherish my friends and family. I am grateful for all of my advantages, the health of my family and friends. I am thankful for the impact I have had on others and how those same people have impacted me.

I choose grateful.

Doesn’t mean I’m not sad or at times frustrated.

But the choice to be grateful and present is all mine.

The choice to have a great finish and enjoy my family and friends is all mine.

After all, isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?

-J.D.