Mantras, Mindset, and Memories: Why Experiences Matter More
Shout out to GliderSports in Clinton, MO
LIFE IS ABOUT EXPERIENCES, NOT THINGS. If you haven’t fully embraced this idea yet, I encourage you to give it a try. It’s those little, unexpected moments, the ones that catch you off guard, that often turn into the most meaningful memories.
I’ve always leaned into experiences over things, and I love how they often come wrapped in the stories of the people you meet along the way. (I’m proud to say I get that curiosity honestly - thanks, Mom and Dad!)
This photo: It’s me with my tandem skydive instructor on one of those unforgettable, random experiences. And surprisingly, what made it so special wasn’t the jump itself (although the freefall was epic), what warmed my heart was the stranger I got to share it with (crazy how things happen)!
We spent hours waiting for our turn to go up in the plane, just sitting in a room and talking. Naturally, I had a million questions because I can’t help but dig into people’s stories (along with my cousins who were there, also inquisitive, and never meets a stranger👏). Short version? He was a former Army Ranger who now spends his time ministering on mission trips. Listening to his journey, where he’d been, how he was serving now, the faith and passion that shaped his life, made that day so much more than an adrenaline rush. Every time I look at this picture, it’s his story and his heart for others that come rushing back. That’s the memory I’ll never lose. Good people, doing good things, bringing joy to others and living life!
(And for the record, I did give him fair warning: “I love Jesus, but I’m 100% going to cuss a lil’ when we bail...and I did!” 😉)
Another example is a Christmas tradition I started with my son when he was younger. For years, his “big present” was our December ski trip to Steamboat Springs, Colorado (our favorite place, check it out if you've never been)! We’d go with family and cousins (yes, the same ones at the skydiving experience...you'll find that cousins are very special to me) who were more like siblings, and year after year, we collected memories that get better every time we retell them - the theatrics are real in this family!😂
I still remember asking him a few different times after one of our early trips and asking, “Would you rather have presents under the tree or our ski trip with the fam?” Without hesitation, he always chose the trip. I was honest with him: I could buy him toys that might be forgotten in a few weeks, or I could invest in laughter, bonding, adventure and stories we’d carry forever. Every time he picked memories. That made my momma heart so proud and so full.❤️
And that’s the magic of choosing experiences over things. Things can break, get lost, or lose their shine. Memories? They only grow richer with time!
Your mindset shapes how you value your life. So here’s my question for you: What’s one experience you can choose to create (big or small) this week that will bring you joy, connection, or a story worth retelling?
Oh, and my shirt? It says “Live Free.”
MINDSET HACK: I’m constantly surrounding myself with little mantras that remind me how I want to live and lead. Fun reminders like that can help you keep your mindset right where you want it. You should try it too. 🙌
And if shifting your mindset feels tough or you don't know where to start, I’d love to help you unlock the tools to make it easier. Mindset is the biggest game changer when it comes to approaching and dealing with (Peri)Menopause, and ladies, YOU have full control over your experience.
If you’re in your mid-30’s or beyond, shoot me a message or email below. And if you know someone who needs to hear this, share it. I’d love to help make that shift and start making those memories!
Until next time, remember: your attitude determines your latitude.
Choose it. Own it. Live it.
TRACY SHEPHERDtracy@thetracyshepherd.com