Six months ago today

Six months ago today I was hit in the head with a softball. Maybe it’s my glass-half-full attitude, but I wouldn’t change what happened. I’ve discovered a lot about myself because of the accident, and I’ve taken time to evaluate my life. Here are six lessons from the past six months:

1. Wear a helmet. I was playing in a Sunday beer league that doesn’t require batters to wear helmets. Regardless of the league’s policy about helmets, I should’ve had one on my head. From now on, I’ll take responsibility for my own safety.

2. Surround yourself with generous loving people. Boyfriend, family, and friends got me through this. They take better care of me than I do, and I appreciate each and every one of them.

3. Respect your mind and body. During the first few weeks – okay, fine, months – I tried to force my recovery. I pushed myself too hard too fast. Just because you can push through the pain doesn’t mean you should. Listen to your body and respect what it tells you. Take the time you need to fully recover from an injury.

4. Recognize there’s more to life than your career. I was a blackberry-addicted career-aholic who couldn’t leave work at the office. I can see now that there’s more to life and more to me than my job.

5. Be a priority in your own life. I’ll return to the workforce with new found perspective. I will put me first. I won’t sacrifice healthy eating, exercise, and sleep the way I used to. I will make my health a priority.

6. Don’t let an accident keep you from what you love. Yes, I was hit in the head. Yes, the past few months have been difficult. But I love softball. I’ve been playing since I was a kid and this is the first major injury I’ve had. I will play again as soon as I’m able.

Bella