Recognizing Patterns: Revisiting Old Notes and Current Trends

This weekend, the snow pummeled southern Ontario - this meant indoor days. I was mentally prepared not to leave anywhere until this morning (just finished my dentist appointment). While checking in with some friends, asking those with kids how their offspring are spending their snow days. Some were outside, frolicking in the freshly fallen snow. Others were inside, avoiding it at all costs and staying connected virtually. I truly understand the desire both sides of that icy coin.

For this blog, I was going to write about how we spent snow days in the 90s. It was inspired by a picture of me with a childhood friend, Nynke. We stood in front of an igloo we had built with her father. Snow was an opportunity for creativity, adventure and fun. Building forts, with caves and tunnels, and sliding down anything that was a hill on our butts, cardboard or plastic carpets. Or, just sitting in a snowbank and feeling the cold slithered it's way through all the layers your parents told you to wear to your bare skin. Not to mention boys being able to practice our cursive writing, a lost art.

While looking for the photo, I found a box with my school report cards. Yes, I kept those. It has been years since I had read them, so instead of looking for the photo, I sat down and read each one. Kindergarten through grade 12, page after page of how Ronald, Ronnie or Ron understood the work.

There were three consistent comments:

1. I was an active participant in class, mostly in English, Geography, Music and French, and able to apply the methods taught. History, math and science were not my forte.
2. I consistently failed to complete all assigned homework and tasks, and did not ask for help when I needed it
3. I was a pleasure to have in their classes - awe.

I was both a nerd and a slacker. Someone who really wanted to please his authority figures and find recognition for being a good boy. But also, I was a doofus. I joked around, goofed off and was easily distracted by other's or able to distract them. My favourite was eating my math homework in grade four, just so I could hold hands with Mr. Allison at recess - his preferred method of punishment.

While I read these, I was reflecting on my work style and realize how these  comments apply today:

1. I can learn a method or techniques and apply it, now including math or science. When I take the time to learn something new, I like to master it or ask all the questions to understand that subject.
2. I am great with coming up with big ideas, but follow through tends to be my downside. This was confirmed through a few personality tests. DISC personality testing showed I'm inspiring yet cautious. I like people, I'm friendly, I can come up with big ideas that motivate others, but the risks of a big idea outweigh the rewards. I hold myself back.
3. I am a pleasure to be around - awe.

Recognizing this pattern now, perhaps, will help me find ways to manage projects through to the end without completing them last minute. Like this blog! I am now publishing on Tuesdays when I said I would publish Saturday or Sunday. 

What if we combine the two? Not keeping my big ideas organized, but following through on the little details. I spoke about this with my friend, mentor and coach, Kimberley of

https://www.retroscripts.ca/

, for many years. She provides inspirational and customized resources for to help her clients with organizing their writing projects, but also grief management and homemade apothecary products for stress-relief, rest and calm. That's Retroscripts DOT C A.

While Kimberley keeps up the support (which I love her for doing), I ask you, my readers, if you have any methods or techniques for staying organized with your projects. What are your personality traits you harbour from your youth, too? Besides picking noses and worrying about cooties.

I have so many stories about our travels I want to write, but I need to get my thoughts organized. If you want to hear these tales, send me a message with any tips you have on staying organized and focused.

Alright, the numbing is going away. Almost time to eat.