Developing a Personal Credo

One of my passion projects this past week has been to develop a Personal Credo (writing exercise example, leadership credo example).

A credo is a statement of your beliefs and values that guide your actions. I think I'm 90% there, but of course, as I grow as a person, this will evolve with me.

Personal Credo

I believe in being ethical and aware, treating everyone around me with kindness, respect and compassion. And above all, I try to have sunshine inside of me to share with those around me.

I am passionate about language and helping people be the best communicators they can be.
Everything everyone needs to succeed is inside of them, they just need to peel back the layers.

I love working in diverse groups, but I need to focus on analysis and writing in the zone during alone time. I believe in taking the time to building trust, structure and a strong foundation for any partnership.

I continue to accept challenges and opportunities to learn and grow. There are no mistakes, only lessons.  The only right way is forward.

Things I Like About Winter

I suffer during Chicago winters, both physically and emotionally, so I decided to delay that blue attitude for now and instead just look at the positives.

winter scene at Morton Arboretum

Here's my list of things that I really like or that I'm thankful for during the Chicagoland winter, which for me lasts, contrary to typical seasonal convention (December 21 to March 21), from late November into early May:

• warm spaces
• the car's heater
• wool blend socks to keep my feet dry and warm
• sturdy boots to keep my steps steady through slush, salt, snow, ice, black ice, and more
• Mexican hot chocolate, Italian hot chocolate, and chili hot chocolate -- square marshmallows are a plus
• homemade whipped cream
• shepherd's pies
• large cups of hot tea with lemon
• long sleeve layers of clothing
• my thick and bulky "Eskimo" winter coat
• hot cider with cinnamon and nutmeg
• mashed potatoes
• cheesy pasta bakes with fresh buffalo mozzarella and San Marzano canned tomatoes
• onion soup with a thick, cheesy french bread crust
• Panera bread soups and crunchy bread
• wool blend shawl-scarves
• television series on Netflix and Amazon Instant
• YouTube LP videos
• Lush or Hugo's Naturals bath bombs in hot, candlelit evening baths while listening to ambient music
• a warm and fuzzy bathrobe
• warm hoodies that don't shrink in the wash/dry cycle
• huge fluffy house socks
• trips to somewhere warm
• clean, soft cotton underwear and long sleeve tees
• Pinterest cozy winter theme boards
• my snuggly furry buddy
• driving through the winter landscape at the Morton Arboretum