I was born on an island. I love the ocean. I love the smell of all oceans. In Boston, Maine, and near any harbor, I can detect the faintest whiff of ocean. I love even more the warm waves of the Caribbean Sea, the tropical breeze, the smell of fried seafood, and dry sea salt on my skin.
I love the familiarity of the joy and laughter that people in tropical places seem to have in abundance, even in hard times. It’s contagious. It gives me joy. The vibrant colors of the Caribbean, always appropriately bold, but always too loud when I wear them in New England, also give me joy.
More than two decades ago, I realized that I liked snorkeling. Ten years later, I fell in love with the ocean as my favorite meditative place. Floating in the ocean, chasing fish and coral, I forget all else. The world escapes me. I can focus on a single item or nothing at all.
As a woman, mother, executive, and someone with a heavy load, I find that time away serves me well. My most restorative times are when I can manage to leave work behind, fully, and immerse myself in all that the Caribbean offers.
So, before the summer passes you by, think about what gives you joy, besides your family. What are three things that you can do that are solely for you? What can you indulge in selfishly? In what ways can you spoil yourself a bit this summer?
As women, we prioritize everyone and put ourselves last. Here
