True happiness + being certifiable + finding intrinsic motivation without deadlines.
Did you know that before very recently, I don't think I had ever experienced actual happiness?
Hear me out.
I have experienced joy, excitement, enthusiasm, affection, love, anticipation, relief, and any number of positive emotions. I know I have, because I was there.
But admittedly, those are all somewhat externally focused. Like, "if good things happen then I'll feel XYZ." Which isn't inherently bad...
... but I've realized that when people talked about "finding happiness within yourself, regardless of what's going on around you" - I never understood what they meant.
I always thought it was a metaphor or a euphemism for just calming down a bit when things are rough.
But no.
People are out here feeling genuine happiness no matter what's happening around them. Their emotional state was separate from their circumstances this whole time.
I've always been an optimist, but happiness? In the midst of chaos and tragedy and all the hard things happening in the world?
It's this realization that has shown me how much I've been living in a reactionary state, where everything I feel and everything I do is in response to something else I feel or do or experience.
It's taken me 37 years to wake up in the morning and think, "yeah, I'm happy today. No reason, just am."
And trust me, there are plenty of 🔥🔥🔥 situations around me that should have me reeling or panicking. This isn't a "my life is perfect" brag post, because it is not.
If dirty dishes are an indicator of how things are going, well I have to tell you that I literally have Rubbermaid tubs of them *beside* the full sink.
Two of them.
A bunch of stuff is sh!t right now, AND - I'm happy.
Not "but I'm happy"
Not "I'm happy anyway"
Both things are just true.
And it's f*cking WILD, YALL.
Unmasking, med1cating, and deconstructing all of this has taught me more about myself than anything I've ever done.
Lots in the newsletter this week, including some new segments and sections, so check out all the resources I've got for you and stick around for some of the events!
- Cheryl
❤️ More Support
We're about 10 days out from the OFFICIAL start date of the Neurodivergent Accessible Provider Program - our 16-week certification program for service providers who want to work with neurodivergent folks in their businesses and get more ND clients.
With the certification, you get everything you need to make your business more accessible for YOU and everyone you serve, PLUS a full marketing plan to help you attract and retain more neurodivergent clients who need you, plus a full year of marketing, ops, communications, design, movement, bookkeeping, and executive functioning support.
All inclusive. Nothing extra to buy. One-stop shop.
🐿️ Squirrel Squad - Facebook Group Updates
We've got a new mascot! Why? Because we need something to associate ourselves to, so we can be a more connected group. So, our little squirrel pal is our new mascot, and he needs a name. Watch for the poll to get posted tomorrow to choose his final moniker!
Wednesday around lunchtime, I'll be going live in the group with Dusti Arab and Veronica Yanhs to talk about community, connection, and this cool live (in-person) event we're doing in Portland in December. Come hang with us if you can!
A few members have asked about the Guides recently. I'll be adding a lot more resources over the next while, but to start you off, this is the link to what is already posted.
Make sure you remember to comment on Show Us Your Nuts Friday in the group with your promo, so we can see what you're up to!
