365 Questions: Weeks 16 to 18

WEEK 16
108. What question do you hate to answer?

Well, I’m not really enjoying this question right now (just joking!). I would have to say that the question I don’t like to answer is “What do you want to be when you grow up?” At 54, I think I’m still figuring that out. I’ve never been much of a career person – I’ve always placed more importance on the people I work with. If you have a supportive team surrounding you, what you do doesn’t really matter. I like what I do, but it doesn’t really define me.

109. What cheers you up?

A good comedy can cheer me up but I usually rely on the kindness of my friends when I need a big pick-me-up. They always come through for me.

110. What’s your favourite time of day and why?

I know what my least favourite time of day is (morning) but it’s hard to pin down my favourite. I’m a night hawk so I tend to be more creative in the evenings, but, if I had to pick one favourite time, it likely would be around 5ish as that’s when work is over and I can get on with the business of having fun.

111. What’s the biggest turnoff in someone else?

I’m not a big fan of negativity or endless complaining. My sister says that you’re allowed to tell your story (vent) to three people. After that, it’s just whining. If there’s something wrong in your life, fix it. If you can’t fix it, find the appropriate people who can help you fix it. But complaining about the same thing over and over again, does not accomplish anything.

112. What one thing do you think people will say about you at your funeral?

I hope they will say that I made them laugh.

113. What was the best day of your life and why?

I think every day above ground is pretty good.

114. Do you really listen when people talk to you?

I really try to be an active listener.  But because I’m a problem solver, I can fall victim to trying to think of solutions when someone is telling me a problem . . . rather than giving them 100 per cent of my attention. 

WEEK 17
115. Is your life complicated by unnecessary things? If so, what are they?

I’m trying to declutter my house right now. I wouldn’t say it’s complicating my life but I’d like to have less stuff.

116. Are you a giver or a taker?

I’m a giver to the max.

117. What does love taste like?

Hmmm. Love tastes like a number of things: minty toothpaste, red wine, sweaty skin.

118. Do the people in your life bring out the best or worst in you?

I’m pretty lucky in that I am surrounded by positive, like-minded people who inspire me to be a better person. I have pretty much eliminated those who drain me.

119. What three things in your life would you change and why?

I would have less stuff (see #115). I would be in a committed relationship. While I’m enjoying the dating process, I would like to have that part of my life settled. I would like to have a bit more deposable income to do a few more things around my house.

120. What mistake have you made again and again?

Not having enough faith in my own intuition and I've made some poor choices because of this – stayed in a bad relationship longer than I should. Didn't change the oil in my car in time. I usually like to poll the audience (my friends), however I’m learning to trust my instincts more often.

121. When was the last time you took a big risk?

Did I mention I’m single and dating? In trying hard to present my authentic self on a consistent basis, I open myself up to vulnerability which is always a risk.

WEEK 18
122. What have you learned from your parents?

I learned the importance of giving back to your community from my mother who was an active volunteer. From my father, I learned the importance of having strong faith. 

123. What’s your favourite word and why?

I love the word minutia. I just love the way it sounds.

124. How many times have you fallen in love?

Three times.

125. Are you at peace with yourself? Why?

I’m pretty Zen at the present time. I’m pretty happy with who I am right now and what I’m doing with my life. 

126. What do you like to get lost in?

I can get lost in a good book or a lover’s eyes.

127. What makes you smile?

So many things make me smile: when a favourite song comes on the radio, puppies, watching my friends enjoy themselves, a witty remark, and so much more.

128. Do you typically listen to your head, heart or gut?

When it comes to work, I definitely listen to my head. But in everything else, I probably listen to my heart most. That being said, I’m learning to give my gut equal consideration.