From the mind of a 20-something gal

Do you ever feel like your life is in a state of constant competition?

Be the first to get your degree.

Be the first to get a kick ass job.

Be the first to get engaged.

It is exhausting.

I've never been one to compete with others, but find myself often times comparing my accomplishments against those around me. And who's to say that being first satisfies your happiness? Whatever happened to "slow and steady wins the race"?

I recently read a very enlightening book. One that changed the way I see things. One that taught me that being smart correlates with how much you worry and I am a puppy dog, canary and sometimes a goldfish. Confused? Go read The Noticer by Andy Andrews. It will change your life.

Only you, and you alone, will be able to define your happiness. You cannot analyze each of your coworker's and friend's lives trying to live up to their standards. You will never find happiness this way.

That is why I choose to continue my pursuit of meaning in my life. What is my purpose?

I know the big guy upstairs has a plan that I cannot possibly imagine.

So I do my best to listen and respond when He calls.

He told me to take a job at Kansas State University. He told me there is an opportunity there that I need to explore. And He told me I need to take a shot at love.

I refuse to play the game and let competition consume me. Because it is not me. I will find my why in the best way that I know how and never give up on pushing my comfort zone to help me become a citizen of the world.

I wish everyone peace and blessings as we wrap up a very strange and tiring 2012. Here's to a new year and a new beginning in what may be the best to come! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!