if at first you don’t succeed, redefine success.

Ever since I was in high school I have been infatuated with good quotes.  I had them posted in my room, on my locker, etc.  I believe this is one that I had on my computer at work when I was working for my dad during college.  He did not like it.  I, on the other hand, thought at the time that it was hilarious.  And now, I think that it is actually quite good.

Really, it depends on the way you look at it.  If you look at it as an excuse to not have to try your hardest or do your best, then yes, side with my dad.  But if you look at it in another light, that sometimes we measure our expectations of success incorrectly, it can be a very positive thing.

Too often I put unattainable perfection as the only possible successful result in my life.  If everything doesn’t turn out just right for a birthday party or on a craft I’m making, I tend to look at the flaws rather than look at the good in the situation.  If I can redefine my success to make me happy with my result, than is that really a bad thing?  I don’t think so.

Take my life right now for example.  A few months ago I posted that I was so excited to try to get to my 50 lbs. lost goal weight by June 1st.  Well, I am about two weeks away from that date with no possibilities of actually reaching that goal.  I could be extremely disappointed in myself, I could give up all my efforts of being healthy because it isn’t worth it since I didn’t succeed at my initial goal.  Or, I can redefine success.

So, my success is that I have changed my unhealthy habits.  I have started going to the gym.  I have tried to focus on keeping myself healthy so that I can raise my kids and be around for a long time.

Example #2:  As you know, I have had some difficult pregnancies.  I’m at a 50% success rate with having children right now.  But, why do I say that making it full term is a success?  I provided a body for a spirit, and that is the only thing that Heavenly Father has asked me to do.  I cannot choose when He takes them from this earth.  I cannot choose His will.  But, I can consider providing a body, no matter for how long, a success.  I can feel like I’ve had all successful pregnancies, and that this one will be successful, too, no matter if I actually am able to keep the baby or not.

So, yes.  I’m pregnant.  That is why I cannot meet my goal by June.  That is why I am scared to death.  That is why I am puking every day and taking naps mid-afternoon.  That is why you will find me at a fast food drive-thru at 9 at night.  Because I’m trying to survive.  And I’m trying to have a successful pregnancy.  But I will consider it a success whether I have a baby in my arms this winter or not.

Consider this success redefined.  And more updates to follow regarding this latest hopeful addition to the Bloomfield Family, to arrive Dec 2nd or thereabouts.