I just started a new job. It is a huge switch for me. For the past 10 years I have worked from home (for the most part), set my own schedule, and had huge amounts of flexibility in my work and home life.
However, an opportunity presented itself to go to work for a big company doing a job that by most accounts is a "dream job." I'm now officially in the business of assisting this company do sustainability work. It is scary for me - getting up early, wearing clothes that are ironed, being schedule oriented. But the work is so exciting!
Today we were discussing many movements in the sustainability and green worlds, including LOHAS. That is Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability. It makes me calmer just thinking it.
In addition, I got an email from my blog-partner about the changes going on in her life. She didn't say the words, but she desires a lifestyle of health and sustainability. She feels overwhelmed, busy, tired, and hungry for consistency...she wants her pancake morning. I understand how she feels - going back to work has put my world on it's ear!
After reading her email and chatting on the phone, I really started to think about this lifestyle of health and sustainability thing. There is a lot on the web - it's an "official" demographic. But forget all that - I like how it sounds. Lifestyle - it sounds purposeful and authentic. Health - it feels strong and liberating. Sustainable - it won't sacrifice the future for the present. I don't know if I am or want to be part of the official movement or demographic, but I know that I want to live my life in a healthy and sustainable way.
What does that mean today? I must commit to making the best choices I can that do not make me feel guilty, that feed my inner soul and my physical body, and that treat the planet as I would treat my home. I must be willing to forgive myself for my faults and accept that I will not always be perfect, that choices are just that, and while I may still want it all, I cannot have it all right now!
For this point in my life I have chosen enriching professional work over sleeping late; more financial security over flexibility; and stretching my skills over my comfort zone. But, I will remind myself to walk in the sun, cook real food and eat with my family (whenever possible), and remember that sustainable and gracious living cannot be preached to others without allowing it for myself. Mazel tov and LOHAS!
