I think I can declare myself a Queen. The queen of doing what I don’t feel like doing.

My husband never fails to remind me on one of the first conversations we had when we met. I had asked him whether he went to church that morning, which was a Sunday, and he replied that he didn’t. When I asked why, he responded that he didn’t feel like it.

I had just read a book on emotions that inspired me (can’t remember the title). I went on to tell him words he still reminds me of today.

I said to him “your feelings are a point, but they are not the point.’

Need I say, he went to church the next Sunday😁.

O sure, there are times I react based on my feelings but I cannot count how many times I put my feelings aside to act based on my goals.

I don’t always eat what I feel like or exercise when I feel like. Rather, my wellbeing goals pretty much determine these.

I have gone to work on so many days, when I would rather be in bed! Showing up is a skill set.

Emotional intelligence experts advocate on the need to regulate our emotions to align with outcomes we desire. In other words, we are responsible for changing our mood to suit our objectives and not waiting for our moods to direct us.

What if you are never in the mood? Especially if you suffer depression or a mood disorder.

Don’t get me wrong there are a few times I just wish I acted based on how I felt. Especially on days where I need a break and just want to rest. Let’s just say it does not usually end well.

A few weeks ago, I was still in my new year snooze when the call came in to deliver a training programme.

It was so easy to pass it on, as:

1. I was still still in holiday mode, and a bit of a haze about my focus for 2025.
2. It was very short notice, nothing aside the title had been agreed, thus, very easy to say no.

What generally guides me, is alignment with my values and goals. Which are geared towards my vision and purpose.

I decided to take on this particular assignment for several reasons.

1. I loved the topic, ‘unlocking the power of HR data for strategic decision making.
2. I knew would learn something in designing the content and even more by delivering it.
3. I love sharing knowledge. Adult learners are self directed with great experiences to share and learn from.
4. Meeting new people always opens up new relationships and opportunitites
5. I would have fun and an adventure of sorts.

Your compass should be your vision and purpose, and if you are not sure of what many refer to as purpose, be clear on your vision, which is simply your future goals.

Ask yourself, is this activity bringing me one step closer to where I want to be in 3 years?

Remember your feelings are a point, but don’t let them rob you off living a meaningful life tied to your values, vision and goals.

So, here is to a meaningful and adventurous 2025.

Your thoughts?