In the last three years of my life, I have experienced more challenges, heartbreaks, and triumphs, than in the previous 37 years. Coincidence? I think not. Could it be that I’m older and wiser and paying more attention to the blessings in my life? That may be a small part of it.
But I think it’s this. For the first time in my life, I feel completely in control of what happens to me. I don’t mean I have a crystal ball or anything. I know I can’t control freak accidents or unexpected health issues or career changes. But I CAN, for the first time, control how I feel and react to these challenges.
I had just been experiencing and enjoying life. Riding the rollercoaster of work and young children and excited about where it would lead me next. Until BAM. My 15-year marriage ended. Not long after, my 77-year old father died.
How did these life-altering experiences bring about the most triumphant three years of my life you ask? They put me, (kicking and screaming,) back in the driver’s seat. Baby step by baby step, I took control of my finances, read anything I could get a hold of, learned to be vulnerable, accepted my failures and even started asking myself, “What do I want out of life?”
Had I really made it to my 40’s without asking what I wanted out of life?
I knew I wanted more, but I didn’t have a roadmap, or like-minded travel buddies, to help me get there. Then GoalFriends came into my life and put my slow, but steady path toward life ownership in overdrive! It also introduced me to some of the most real and supportive women I’ve ever met.
Here I am, a mere weeks away now from marrying the most incredible man. I’m so appreciative of him and our time together everyday. We have a beautiful home, four happy and healthy children, and regular communication about our future and what we want out of it. I have a bucket list (with things checked off!) a group of GoalFriends cheering me on and a life I am so proud of.
Being forced to take the reigns of my own life was possibly the best thing that’s ever happened to me. My GoalFriends keep me inspired and on track to keep living my best life. Whatever life throws my way in the future, I now have the roadmap, confidence and support to face it head on!
Gretta Handley, GoalFriend since 2017
Chief Experience Officer – Davis & Pyle Plastic Surgery/Skin Raleigh