Have you ever abandoned a project? Ever had a jigsaw puzzle on the dining room table that you had to eat around for way too long? A half-knitted scarf in a bag waiting for the snow-day that never comes? A baby book that left off when your child was in nursery school and they’re about to graduate high school?

Trust me, I know the feeling. There are only so many hours, and there’s always something more pressing to attend to. Urgency trumps importance.

As an INFJ personality type (based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator), I am perfectionistic. While it is wonderful to be defined by my pursuit of ideals, I must accept that an ideal situation is not always possible. That brings me to blogging.

Precisely one year ago on this day, I published my manifesto: The ABCs of Social Consciousness. Then, for an entire year, I ignored my blog, always believing there will be a perfect time to resume down the road. My purpose is to inspire you, but I’ve been less than inspiring. In fact, I’ve been absent.

I’m working on this weakness. I’ve been told it’s more important to show up than to be perfect. This is why blogging does not come as easily as I’d like.

Blogs aren’t meant to be polished… and I’m a polisher. An entry shouldn’t take more than an hour, but I can labor all morning.

So here I am, back to the struggle of seeing this through – to accomplish what I set out to do – to motivate you to connect with people and to help people.

I want to encourage you to pick up what you dropped. That hobby. That business venture. That relationship. That thing that will help someone, somewhere, even if that’s yourself.

Pick it back up. Know that it may be rusty. Sand off the rust.

 

After just one or two sessions of that resumed workout, a couple of chats with the friend you lost touch with, or whatever it is you’re getting back into, you’ll find yourself happier and more fulfilled.

Seeking out people who share your interest is a great way to find the support you’ll need to stick with whatever it was that you dropped in the first place. Avoid activities that conflict with your goal. If you’re learning to cook, stay away from the group that always eats out, or better yet, invite them to dinner at your place.

If it’s a more complex project you’re working on, know that by simply starting the necessary planning to see it through to the end, you are making a difference. With each determined, concrete step towards your goal, your enthusiasm and skills will grow. Remember, I’m here growing right alongside of you and would be delighted to hear about your progress. Please share in the comments what you’ll be picking back up!

P.S. Here are some of the guest posts I’ve done in the past year, while taking time off from mine. I hope you enjoy these exercises in insightfulness.

My Discovery Process
How to Snub Clutter and Embrace Significance
How to Develop Your Child’s Social Conscience