The past few months, I have been contemplating the type of person that I wish to be and the experiences that I would like to have in the coming months and years. I want to challenge some of the notions that have been programmed into me by my past experiences, education, and environment. As I write this article, we are embarking on Spring but not so secretly craving all that summer brings. Slower days, brighter sunshine, and a little more adventure are on the horizon allowing us to shake off the pollen from Spring and the darkness that accompanies winter. Summer signifies freedom. Are you willing to go on a new adventure with me?
This Summer shall be our Phoenix moment, rising from the ashes of our former expectations and experiences to reclaim the word and season for ourselves. The fun thing about meaning is that we are the person that can assign it…or change it. I spent this morning watching a movie about an experience that I am working to cultivate for myself on the year that I turn 45. While it may seem a bit odd to plan two years in advance, the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain is something that requires much preparation mentally, physically, and financially.
While I have been researching the pilgrimage for a few months, I ran across this amazing movie called “The Way” which is also the name given to the Camino (Estevez, 2013). The story follows the journey of Martin Sheen as he carries out the wishes of his son, Emilio Estevez, who died on the Camino during the very beginning of his journey. Sheen flies to France (Estevez was taking the French route) to claim the body but instead chooses to finish the pilgrimage in honor of his son. While I have always wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail “someday”, I felt much more inspired by the Camino… so, I gave it a date. In 2025, I hike the Camino de Santiago.
One of the exercises that I use with clients and certainly implement in my own life is the idea that “I am now the type of person who ______.” Whether it is not wearing red lipstick (an example from my own life), not playing a sport or walking across Spain, we are often saddled with these expectations and limitations from others. Not weighing myself down with what is conventional or practical, I claim that I am now the type of person who does long distance walking in the U.S. and other countries. Period. Mic drop. This is who I am.
Our “winters” may have been long and dark. The spring may have brought upon both beauty and challenges. But the sunshine of potential is warming your face now. Embrace the new mantra that “I am now the type of person who _____.” To me, this is the way. The journey begins with a decision, so decide today. I’ll see you on the trail.
References:
Estevez, E. (Director). (2013). The Way [Film]. Icon Productions.
Dr. Taffy Hawkins is an avid writer, researcher, author, speaker and performance expert. She holds a Doctorate degree in Psychology specializing in Sport and Performance Psychology, both a B.S. and M.S. in Exercise Science, and certifications in life coaching and mental performance Mastery. She began her journey into personal development when struggles in her own life left her asking how she might experience more success, adventure, and appreciation in life without compromising mental health. This journey brought her to coaching and eventually a great career help others maximize their own lives. Her fourteen years of teaching, coaching, and writing have allowed her to help many individuals overcome the mental blocks that prevent performance at the highest level. Taffy has also authored six books to date on various topics to help readers experience greater physical, mental and spiritual growth. When she is not helping others become their best self, she enjoys reading, writing, sports, traveling with her family and daydreaming about her next adventure.