Seeking a new rhythm

Had a great time my last day as Greenlights' ED - the staff gave me this fun lunch where they presented me with a beat up old suitcase, newly painted to resemble a green hummer and filled with traveling gear, advice, and accessories. Mary Alice had published a comic book of advice - which I will provide the link to once she has it on her website. Lots of laughter, a few tears during the day, and a good feeling that I am leaving a proud team with a fun future ahead.

I emailed to friends and colleagues about my new plans and contact info and got back some thoughtful notes and advice. At the end of the day, as I was packing away photos and files and writing down last minute notes to self, two friends stopped by to reminisce and wish me well.. Good sendoff.... On Monday I'll greet my successor with flowers, lots of lists, and a few tips and insights...mostly a listening ear and a cheer-leader attitude. I can imagine the information overload that will greet him his first weeks at Greenlights - so much to learn, and so much happening.

So this morning I went to my first salsa aerobics class, and it gave me a metaphor for my new pathway. I stood on the back row of the class, watching a spirited, talented instructor take us through steps and movements, to the beat of salsa, merengue, and cumbia. Very clutzy in the back row.....it will definitely take me time to find the rhythm, get my legs and arms moving in thwe right direction, and build up my aerobic stamina.

Just like starting all my new career adventures. It will be tentative steps, getting tangled up, having to stop every once in a while, even as the music is blaring and the beat is insistent. I know from experience it takes time to ramp up. I just need to have the patience - in my salsa class and my day-to-day new projects.