For years now, I have had this aching feeling, this burning compulsion to write. I want to make a difference. I want to help people. I want others to thrive.

However, and I assume this is not uncommon, I fear I have nothing to write about or, at least, nothing anyone will find interesting. So, here I find myself at 9 pm on a school night, kids in bed, husband at work, facing my doubts. I am discovering WordPress for the first time wondering if I’ll have the courage to publish what I write.

Ah, and then there’s the question: what exactly do I write that can help, that can make a difference? Let’s see, I could go on with my in-depth knowledge of hiring and firing and motivating people, I could amuse or terrify you with stories illustrating my parenting “skills,” or maybe I could just start by writing what I’ve learned.

This is what I decided… to provide insight into some key lessons I’ve learned in life. Because these key lessons have molded me, my outlook on life and circumstances, and ultimately have created in me a drive to not only survive, but THRIVE.

I love that word! Don’t you? Thrive.

Merriam-Webster defines “Thrive” as:

“1: to grow vigorously : flourish
2: to gain in wealth or possessions : prosper
3: to progress toward or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances —often used with on, as in ‘thrives on conflict’ ”

Pause for a moment and think about that…

“To grow vigorously…to progress toward or realize a goal despite…circumstances…” That’s it! Not making excuses for why something didn’t work or why I didn’t win but rather achieving my goal (personal or professional) in spite of my circumstances.

That’s what thriving means to me and what I hope I can help even one person achieve, through writing this blog.

Until next time, my friends…