It’s important to have things to look forward to. A coach once told me to daily write down two or three things that I wanted to do or something I look forward to—big or small. It was surprisingly difficult after a few weeks, but exercising that muscle was very valuable.
I would encourage you to give it a try for a few weeks. Just a note on your phone. Thought I would share a few things on my list lately.
Things I’m Looking Forward To
I found a box of old Kodak cameras and an 8mm movie camera I bought ages ago. I found an expired film from 1985 on eBay and look forward to seeing how it turns out. I’ve never shot an 8mm film reel but thoroughly enjoy nerding out on this website to learn about it.
Expanding this newsletter. Using it as a space to practice what I want to do and see if it finds an audience.
Reading more classics. And watching well-known films I’ve never seen. Currently halfway through Hemingway’s “Moveable Feast” and am surprised at how much I’m enjoying it.
I signed up for a continuing education class at Lipscomb about American Civics. Looking forward to being a student again.
I get to talk to a lot of new people these days. Not job interviews, but “you should talk to so-and-so” conversations. Embracing the awkwardness of showing up on a Zoom call with a stranger and no agenda. But I’m getting a lot out of hearing different perspectives about careers. I’m looking forward to what becomes of these conversations. (Let me know if there’s anyone you think I should talk to.)
Asking everyone I know if they are registered to vote. In most states, you’ve got to register around a month before the election. Here’s a helpful guide for you to check your status and/or register. Please pass this along. For the love of God, vote.
I’ve been painting these signs that I don’t know where they are heading but they are fun to make. Makes me want to learn how to do legitimate signpainting.
Art I Like
(This is a loose interpretation of art, but equally as inspiring.)
My mom and I watched “The Big Year” at Christmas last year because she loves birds so much. When I was back home recently, I noticed she had made her own list of birds she’s seen this year. Take your small joys seriously.
“I’m telling you. These guys are weird.” - Tim Walz