Philosophy and Goals
I have never had either a personal philosophy or any tangible goals. I have always just muttled through life surviving day to day but never striving to accomplish anything in particular. I came from such a difficult place; I guess I thought surviving it would be my biggest achievement in life. Then I spent a long time dwelling on the past, so I could not see the future.
As I have gotten older and my life has improved over time; I have started to think there may be ways I can be successful and make meaningful contributions to my life as well as others. As the Fourteenth Dalia Lama (n.d.) says in Compassion and the Individual, “I have found that the greatest degree of inner tranquility comes …show more content…
I will also touch on some challenges I will face on this journey; although they pale in comparison to what I have already overcome. Finally, I will summarize how these things work together to help me be the best version of myself.
Mission Statement
I understand the value of a mission statement for companies and organizations. It helps to define planning and guide the execution of operations. It also conveys a meaningful message to stakeholders. I have to say though, I have never considered that a mission statement can have the same affect in my personal life. After outlining what I value in myself, my family, and my community; then I will be able to convey the kind of impact I want to have on others.
I am guided by the desire to have a happy family, calm mind, and peaceful society.
I engage with my children and husband; so that they feel important in my life. I also practice techniques to soothe internal trepidation. I try to spread kindness and charity to strangers as often as possible. I see myself as an example of overcoming adversity to grow and mature; while providing emotional support to my family, and offering compassion to …show more content…
Obtaining a college degree is a lofty goal for me, but my desire for advancement makes it seem reachable. My intended major directly increases the probability for professional advancement and will improve my ability to provide for my family. Having stability brings peace of mind, which makes me able to give emotional and financial support to others.
Challenges and Obstacles
Like most college students, time and money will be my biggest obstacles to graduation. I can only take one course per session because I am paying out of pocket and I work full time. My job has large cyclical operations that are just getting started again and will last for several years. PTSD and anxiety are conditions that I have and they require effort to manage. The added pressure of school is a concern, but I have an effective support system in place.
My family and I are committed to making sure school is a priority and my employer may pay for some of the costs. But the most helpful thing will be to keep a forward-thinking frame of mind as Sam Berns (2013) describes in his YouTube Video My Philosophy for a Happy Life. I too get stuck in a paradox of sadness, leaving no room for positive emotions. I try not to waste energy on these feelings; instead I look for things to turn around my