I have found it useful to step back a few times a year to reflect on alignment and changes of course. Alignment though is the key. Its like your mental approach to things. If mental outlook is out of alignment, no matter what course you choose its going to be a struggle to get there. Sort of like trying to drive straight, with the wheels pointed against the curb.

I noticed my alignment and journey getting more difficult. With changes on the professional front with new managers, the pending holiday season, the election and it getting cold converged to ruin my mental approach. So this weekend I’m using it for the alignment. Actually I started it last weekend with friends. And this week with family.

I’ve stopped being concerned with changes on the job. Been through millions of them before and will get through these. That is part of being successful in anything, being able to adapt to change in technology and people.

In regards to the holidays. I’m getting prepared for next year. I want to start making some personal gifts. I wish I could have pulled it off this year but time got away from me. I’m committed to shopping this year early in the morning before any crowds come. No not this weekend but weekdays during the next week or two. So the plan is to be done early and not do my usual last-minute spree.

The transition of the office of President, wow that is a deep and endless subject. In short my plan is to protect what I have now financially. I can’t afford another hit like 2008. I’m too old to start over another recovery. The market is already too high and there is too much uncertainty ahead.

I’m also a believer now of self-protection more than ever, so I’m going for my HQL (handgun license). I’ve enjoy shooting at the range with my son for some time now. Always enjoyed shooting skeet as a youth. But for some reason I’ve never felt so unsafe in my own country and unsure about its future. And I’m a white male. So I can only imagine how people of color or different ethnic backgrounds must view it.

Not that I’m anticipating a breakdown of society anytime soon but the extreme actions, statements and anger of both extremes this election season has taught me there are a lot of people who scare the hell out of me . And while I totally respect any kind of peaceful demonstration and the rights to do that, I don’t respect violent actions and if they come my way I will defend myself, my family and friends.

There, now I feel better. I’ll now return you to the positive person who tries to look for the best and beautiful in life.