Paris is always a good idea

Today, I’m writing to you from my apartment in Paris.

You might ask: Why, Robyn, are you in Paris? 

You just quit your job 6 weeks ago. You have a book to finish writing.

Why are you in Paris?

Paris is always a
good idea.
~Audrey Hepburn

I came to Paris for a lot of different reasons. Yes, I did just quit my job as a psychologist and professor a mere 6 weeks ago. Yes, I do have a book to finish writing. Yes. Yes. Yes.

Have you ever done something that makes little sense to anyone else around you,  but you’ve known in your heart of hearts that it was the right thing to do?

That’s how I feel about being in Paris right now.

Ahem. Maybe this will help…

Or try this one…

Anyway you slice it…agree with me or call me crazy, I’m here in Paris.

You don’t know this about me, but when I was taking a French class toward the end of undergrad, I watched a presentation about a study abroad program in Aix-en-Provence, France. My heart leapt with excitement and wonderment.

And then just as quickly, I tamped down my emotions. The trip was expensive. More than I could afford. I didn’t even ask about funding. I didn’t know I could. I thought I was supposed to do everything myself. Besides that, no one I knew wouldwant to do such an adventurous thing.  

And here’s another thing you don’t know about me: for years after, I was deeply disappointed and profoundly envious of anyone who traveled abroad.

I can tell you this: at least part of the reason I’m in Paris right now is because of the girl who I was 20 years ago. This time, when the opportunity arose to meet a world-class photographer and launch she{ology} onto the international stage – in PARIS – I said yes.

Living the she{ology} life means that you live & work in places that inspire you, that uplift your spirit, and that make your heart sing. 

Here’s the thing, all too often gifted and talented women – those with PhDs, MDs, MBAs, Masters degrees, and those who were in gifted education programs as far back as elementary school and middle school – ignore, tamp down or block the excitement, joy and enthusiasm they feel for experiences that they know in their heart-of-hearts are right for them. 

Like me and Provence. 

Here’s the thing. Your spirit knows.

Your spirit knows exactly what you need and when you need it.

So tell me, what positive emotions have you been ignoring?
What adventures and dreams have you deferred?  

Why?

And what are you going to do about it?

Just for today… begin reclaiming your dreams or make a few new ones.