The Optimist In Me

As I try to grasp with all that is happening around me, I have yet landed myself another big responsibility. Last week I was up to my throat in getting Chicagonista.com launched and today I won the seat for secretary of the school board by a landslide. Ok, that's not entirely the truth. I won by default. Well, that's sort of the truth. But really, there was no one else who wants to get nominated, other than another Mom and I who will be sharing the position. I'm laughing as I type this, but the whole responsibility that comes along with it is not a laughing matter.

When I became a mother I remember sitting in a corner asking myself “what have I gotten myself into”? I was so hard on myself. Many times I wondered if I could be a good mother. I was drowning in self-doubt but determined to not fail in motherhood. I then surrounded myself with supportive mothers in mommy groups and playgroups in search for better parenting skills. As time passed by I became more comfortable and my insecurities as a new mother fizzled. I am proud of what I’ve become and I can actually say that I'm a great mom without cringing.

Ever since then, I've learned to be at ease on what I can actually accomplish. Right before my second pregnancy (2 years after my firstborn), I opened my own business. It was invigorating, and the business thrived. After about 6 years down, I closed it because of family. And at to this day I'm at peace with it. I gave it my all, and it gave back 10 fold the reward in money and emotional fulfillment.

Then a new phase in my life came about early last year when I decided to launch MomViews.net. It brought back my writing mojo and entrepreneurial spirit alive again. That is a reward in itself, but never in my wildest dreams did I ever think of the success it will bring. I worked hard on it and took things seriously as I always do in any job. In return, I was rewarded with so many things that may be incomprehensible to one that is clueless of the social media power and blogging combined can bring. I got my feet wet and desired for bigger web existence. This past week, Chicagonista.com launched. I solicited another passionate writer and eco chic organizer friend for partnership and we cranked many hours of hard work and preparation into it. The site is publicly just 2 weeks old, and already I’m seeing many wonderful rewards coming my way.

I am optimistic that this new title as Secretary of the School Board will make a difference. I won't allow myself to get into the "what have I got myself into" zone again. Sure, I'll look like a fish out of water for the first few weeks. I also know that it'll take more than rearranging my calendars to make room. But with a little of my experience, knowing my own self-worth is much more important than having self-doubt. I will strive to work hard and I will reap the rewards in my children. And that is how I will roll...

So bring it on!