What I’ve Learned

posted 29th January 2011    Written by: Renee    CATEGORY: Creativity, Inspiration, Life Lesson, Renee, Season 3

I’ve been Stratejoying for six months. Six whole months. Can you believe it?

If you had told me two years ago that I would be writing for a Quarterlife Crisis blog while starting my first semester of grad school, I would have thought you were nuts. Or at least talking about someone else. Quarterlife crisis? Not me. Of course not. I had my ducks in a row.

We all know that having your ducks in a row does not make a blueprint for life. Stratejoy taught me that. And more importantly, it taught me that that is okay… encouraged, even.

My time as a Stratejoy blogger gave me the courage to write my truth and the confidence to live my truth. In the last six months, I have felt more fulfilled, more authentic, and more Renee than I have ever been. I’ve discovered things about myself that I wouldn’t have had the guts to do without my amazing Stratejoy and blogging community behind me, encouraging me every step of the way.

I’ve become more honest in my writing but that has translated into my public and private spheres as well. I’ve learned to quell the complaining. I’ve learned to enjoy the moment. I’ve learned to appreciate every day and every opportunity that has come my way.

To all of you who have followed along, who have read my posts, who have contributed to discussions, and who have followed me to my personal blog and Twitter- I thank you. I thank you for being ears when I needed them, but most importantly, for validating my story. That’s the most important thing a supportive community can do. I came to you, spilled my guts, shared my dreams and fears, and you validated my story. It’s truly inspiring. Please keep in touch.

To my fellow Season 3 Bloggers- You’re all an inspiration. From you all, I’ve learned what it means to be a strong, authentic, struggling woman. I’ve learned from you how to own it and how to own up to it. Alisha, you inspire me to always keep looking for myself. Doni, you inspire me to share the details of my life. Nikki, you inspire me to make my dreams reality. Lindsey, you inspire me to never give up on my life list. Marian, you inspire me to believe in myself. And Molly…. you just inspire me. I’m so grateful to call these women my friends.

Adios, Stratejoy. It’s been real.

[Note from the Coach:  Renee.  Damn girl- you know I love you.  :) Remember when we met in Chicago and it was like, what? I haven't met you before?  Some part of me has always just recognized some part of you.  From feminist literature, to performing, to speaking your mind regardless of the consequences- it's true love...  And I'm so honored and thrilled and really sincerely happy that you were part of Stratejoy these last 6 months.

Thank you for carrying off this commitment and community, while rocking things in your own world.  Your writing is gorgeous, but better yet, so are you.  And your journey?  Amazing.  I truly admire how you own up to what's working, what's not, and then do something about it with grace and courage.  You're an inspiration.  Don't be a stranger, okay?  Huge freakin' love,  Molly]

{Photo Credit: Erin Parker Photography}

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Comments (10)

10 Responses to “What I’ve Learned”

  • aftertherace Says:
    January 29th, 2011 at 10:47 am

    First of all, that picture is pure awesome.

    Second, I've enjoyed getting to know you and gaining inspiration from your posts, so thank YOU.

    Good luck with life after Stratejoy!

  • Alisha Says:
    January 29th, 2011 at 3:03 pm

    Is that you in your wedding dress? Loooooove it. You've inspired me to go a little deeper, remember to take a stand, and to keep working hard. Thank you for sharing so much of you :)

  • Lindsey Says:
    January 29th, 2011 at 3:46 pm

    Renee, you inspire me to be a strong, empowered woman. Thanks for sharing your story & being my fellow Stratejoy weekend warrior. You rock, lady! So glad to meet you in Chicago, in person! I'll hit you up next time I'm in your neck o' the woods. xoxo!

  • marianschembari Says:
    January 30th, 2011 at 12:58 am

    SO MANY FUCKING HUGS TO YOU. I'll miss reading your stuff here, but can't wait to watch as you kick ass on these new adventures!

  • Renee Says:
    January 30th, 2011 at 8:13 am

    Thank you for following along!

  • Renee Says:
    January 30th, 2011 at 8:14 am

    That's my wedding dress! Keep working hard but don't forget to take time to yourself. ;-)

  • Renee Says:
    January 30th, 2011 at 8:14 am

    So glad to meet you tooooooo! Keep in touch wherever we both may roam!

  • Renee Says:
    January 30th, 2011 at 8:15 am

    SAME TO YOU. (Can I just say one more time how absolutely jealous I am of your Kiwi adventures?!!)

  • Katie [blogs] Says:
    January 30th, 2011 at 8:35 am

    Renee, you're a superwoman, for real. I still remember the day I e-mailed you asking about your blog posts and you were all "I'm juggling so much right now!" and I instantly understood. Not in a "sorry for you" kind of way, but for a "look at this powerhouse girl making everything happen all at once, a marriage, an education, a job, a personal blog, and a weekly insightful post"

    You're nothing short of amazing, and wherever you go, I know happiness will follow. Because, you kick ass. And that's what you get.

  • writeplayrepeat Says:
    January 31st, 2011 at 1:01 pm

    That picture is THE BEST. So triumphant and exuberant. Best wishes as you continue to be gutsy and amazing!

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