Embracing the Rebuilding Phase

In sports, teams often undergo a transformative process called "rebuilding." Focusing on long-term success rather than immediate results for them is a strategic decision. As a parent of kids at UNL, I know the Huskers football program has been in a "rebuilding" phase since they began attending. The Nebraska Huskers won three national titles in the 1990s (for those who follow college football) and has not played in a bowl game since. While there have been many changes through the years, we now have a new head coach as of late 2022. Matt Rhule is working through this rebuilding phase, and we hope to see great things to come in the future.

So, why does this matter to me? Well, I started thinking about how sports teams go through rebuilding, and how it's considered a good thing to focus on long-term goals instead of where they are day to day. Can't this also be used for individuals too? After thinking about it for a while, I realized that there should be times in our own lives of rebuilding where we don't expect rapid results and instead look at how our future is affected. What are our long-term goals? Are we working toward that?

The concept of rebuilding holds a special place in my heart as an empty nester. As my children are off to pursue their own adventures, I face a unique opportunity for self-discovery and growth. Like a sports team aiming for greatness, I decided to take a step back and evaluate the areas of my life that needed renovation.

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of short-term achievements, often neglecting the crucial elements of our well-being. Like a sports team prioritizing the development of young athletes, I realized the importance of investing time and energy into my own physical and mental health. The rebuilding phase offers a time for self-care, reflection, and intentional actions to achieve long-term success in various aspects of life. For me, this includes peace, joy, movement, and nutrition.

As I navigate through my personal rebuilding phase, I draw inspiration from the resilience of sports teams when recognizing the importance of investing in personal well-being and mental health for a fulfilling and sustainable future. Rebuilding often involves:

• Assessing the team's strengths and weaknesses.

• Identifying areas for improvement.

• Making strategic decisions for the future.

Similarly, I took an introspective look at my life, acknowledging my strengths and weaknesses. I embraced the opportunity to learn new skills, revisit old passions, and redefine my goals for the next chapter of life. I've been putting myself out there with writing, dancing, and continuing to be a cheerleader for others. And while these activities don't promote a fast change in my life, I'm embracing the fact that they make my life better in the long run. The focus on long-term success over instant gratification has become my guiding principle, encouraging me to stay committed to my journey of self-discovery – and knowing I'm worth it!

For me, this period of self-rediscovery is not about outward success. Happiness starts within, and only then are you able to share your light with others. My commitment to personal well-being is an investment in a fulfilling and sustainable future.

I'm learning that embracing the rebuilding phase is a powerful and transformative journey. Beginning to prioritize my well-being and mental health, this intentional and patient approach to personal growth ensures a brighter future and contributes to physical and psychological longevity. Just as sports teams rise from the ashes to achieve greatness, so too can we rebuild ourselves for a life of fulfillment and purpose. I wish you an incredible journey!