Taking from Humble the Poet’s bonus workbook for purchasing his book How to be love(d)- simple truths for going easier on yourself, embracing imperfection and loving your way to a better life. 

As you understand it, and in as much detail as possible, describe your reputation. 

Known as a fun, used to be the life of the party, and in some instances, thats still a part of my DNA—brilliance, Heart, Compassion, Optimism, and Partnership. I am someone who is getting better at listening. I’m certainly not perfect, and I reflect back to others what they see in themselves in me. When I get a lot of really nice things said about me, its constantly uncomfortable, but I do love it at the same time. I love reading and connecting with other human beings. Love eating, and I am someone who is a hell yes to most things that come my way. 

What parts of that reputation are not accurate? 

I have changed a bit, especially starting this year, because I am not drinking anymore. I could be a better listener, of course. It’s tough to master that skill. I am practicing getting better with boundaries, so saying no is something I am getting better at. 

What is a part of your identity you wish to let go of? 

I would love to let go of trying to fix everything and help everyone all of the time. It can be exhausting if I do it too much. Some of my people-pleasing tendencies don’t help me in the long run. It’s excellent during and at the moment but doesn’t serve me long time as I would love to have more weekends free to do things that I want to do like hike the world for instance. 

Secrets don’t help love 

What is a secret you’ve been holding on to? 

I could improve at saving money. I owe people money and still do. It’s not all terrible, obviously I’ve been able to live a pretty cool life where I get to travel all over the world and experience so many cool things, which ultimately has an impact on the marriage and for being a responsible adult growing up. I’ve had numerous financial advisors, and yes, they ultimately have an agenda because the better I am at savings, they get to benefit slightly from that as well, and it’s one of the reasons why I’ve hired them. So now I have shame about my credit card and how much I still owe in student loans. Higher education is not as valuable and as important as our society thinks. I’ve learned more practical things from reading books and by taking emotional intelligence courses. 

How does holding that secret make you feel? 

Not great. I do feel better even writing this out on here. The internet is interesting because it’s kind of behind a wall, but you can also get a lot of visiblity. 

Who is someone you can share this secret with? 

I have been sharing it with some friends. I could certainly share a lot more. Let my boss know and have him hold me accountable for what I say I will do, prioritizing work over everything. 

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