I wasn't expecting to be a prima ballerina...I just wanted to dance.
Expectations. From expect. Verb. To look forward to. To consider obligatory. Require. American Heritage Dictionary.
I’ve been working on my new website – www.bodysherpa.net -- for a while now. But my pace is slower than expected. Working with others to create a logo, a look and feel. Taking photos. Writing and editing. It’s November and I’m not where I thought I’d be. And I realize, that, because of that, I’ve just stopped. Ceased. Because things weren’t as I imagined them. Because reality and my vision didn't quite line up.
Expectations. They kill me every time.
I seem to embrace the second definition – “to consider obligatory.” And it’s a push. An either/or proposition. Success or failure.
Expectations of others. Of myself. Of situations. Those moments when I’m writing the script. When I think I know best. How it’s supposed to look, taste, smell, feel…and most importantly, when it is all supposed to happen.
I didn’t even realize I was doing it this time…digging in my heels and shouting “no” when things weren’t going at my pace (Even though I was responsible for setting it), until I recently saw my father in Texas. We were talking about my business. He told me he liked my newsletters. And I realized I hadn’t written any lately…since August, to be exact. Why? Because I wasn’t ready to introduce my website. Because “things” weren’t as I had envisioned. And so I had gone quiet. I was hiding out.
I love being in touch with all of you. Telling you about what I am learning. And inquiring if I can be of help to you. I denied myself this joy because I wasn’t where I thought I was supposed to be.
And so, I’m here today…connecting with each of you. Sharing my words and my joy on this sunny, breezy Chicago November day. And I’m embracing that first definition of expect – to look forward to. Sounds lighter. And a lot more fun.
To that end, please continue to keep your eyes peeled for news on my updated website. And, while you are waiting….I invite you to examine your own expectations and actions. Are there places where you are holding out? Hiding out? In a holding pattern? Because of expectations of yourself and others? Let me know. Saying the words out loud makes me accountable. Maybe it does the same for you too.
Yelp! Asking for Your Help
A new client of mine recently asked why I didn’t have any reviews on Yelp! (Real People. Real Reviews.) I didn’t have an answer. She was kind enough to post my first review…which was shortly followed by a second.
See my Yelp! page
My clients have always been generous in spreading the word of my work. Want to help? (And save money?) Write a Yelp! review and receive $10 off your next session. Go to www.yelp.com to get started, and send me an email once your review is posted.
Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Consider one that feeds the soul…and then some. This year I will again be donating a portion of all gift certificate sales to help feed those in need. For each gift certificate you purchase, $5 will be donated to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. www.chicagosfoodbank.org
Gift certificates are available for:
Massage and BodyWork
30 minutes -- $45
60 minutes -- $80
75 minutes -- $100
90 minutes -- $120
*Add $25 for hot stone therapy
Infant Massage Lessons
75 minutes in your home, including illustrated instruction booklet -- $100
Stretch and Self-Care Sessions
30 minutes -- $45
60 minutes -- $80
BodySherpa Sessions
Practical advice. Customized tools. Support without shame for weight, food and body image concerns.
30 minutes -- $40
60 minutes -- $75
Buy 3 or more gift certificates and receive $5 off the price of each.
Happy Holidays!
Wishing you joy, health and sunshine (Fingers crossed!).
I look forward to seeing you soon.
Be well.
Lesley