Change of Scenery

I have spent the last few weeks finding my focus.

August 26th, 2015

I didn’t set out to do this, and I didn’t really think it was lost. I realized that with rest, relaxation, and new influences, that clarity and creativity follow. I set out to “Change My Scenery” mostly because I can. My kids are older, and I can work from most

anywhere, so I chose Newport Rhode Island as a place to change my scenery for

the month of August. This was not to be a vacation, which some of my family had

a hard time understanding that concept, that I can go away and work at the same

time. I rented a small one room apartment on the outskirts of downtown and

negotiated a fair rate. It had a bed, a bathroom, TV, and a small dorm size

refrigerator, and a microwave and sink. It was in what I refer to as “The

Tombstone District” that is, directly across the street from blocks and blocks

of various cemeteries. My youngest son was with me for a lot of the time, and

my dog Sophie for all of the time. We had some great journeys walking through

the old streets, looking at homes that were furniture makers and blacksmiths

from the mid-18th century through my daily walks through the “Eastern Point”

section of town. Also sailboats galore! We also discovered Broadway, more

where locals go, and of course the touristy areas on the water. Even though

there are beaches, I never went, and spent my time working, reading, and at

times entertaining family and friends. The second to last day there I started

evaluating whether my “Change of Scenery” was worth it. Sometimes I didn’t feel

like going out to dinner, but I didn’t have a kitchen to cook. Other times the

space felt confining, and Sophie always would jump to her feet at any change in

motion always thinking that I was taking her on another walk. She loved the new

sniffs that Newport afforded her! When I was thinking about it, I ended up

accomplishing a lot and spending time considering what was important to me both

professionally and personally. Was this a modern day Walden Pond? Not really,

but I did eliminate many of the trappings of everyday life and routine and put

myself in a focus situation. I realized that I hadn’t realized how great it had

been, and then allowed myself to be happy about it! I also realized that I

didn’t learn too much new about myself or my work, but I instead, learned to

appreciate it a bit more. I do feel lucky. I love the work that I do. I find

it challenging and rewarding. I also realized that I am family and friend rich.

And now I am back in NH. Complete with all the things I need to get done around

the house and in my yard! Recently a client of mine asked me “Why are you doing

this- Changing your scenery?” I said “To try something different, to try and

accomplish in a different environment, one of my choosing and see what happens”

This client is now on her own journey doing something similar and I am looking

forward to hearing whether her journey was as interesting and successful as

mine! SK