One of my favorite inspirational coaches is Marie Forleo. I don’t listen to her as much as I could, but when I do, I’m always glad I did. For one thing, she always makes me laugh. She’s actually pretty silly, a lot of the time.

But, mixed in with her silliness, laughter and good humor are some true gems.

After watching her video about doing a Decade in Review, I decided to suggest doing it to my wife and two friends. We had taken a trip to our tiny cabin in the mountains, and it seemed like a good way to spend an evening after a day of hiking.

The act of looking back at our actions over the decade of the 2010s proved incredibly powerful. We learned as individuals and as a group. (You find out quite a bit about a friend when they share answers to questions as compelling as these.

The first section of the Decade in Review was all about what you’re most proud of and included these steps:

Our small group made it through the first question. We came up with lists of things, large and small, that we were proud of.

For me the years between 2010 and 2017 were some of the most meaningful of my lifetime. During that time, I walked with my mother along her Alzheimer’s journey. At times, it was difficult, at other times enlightening, and always love-filled.

My mother and I grew closer together than we had ever been.

Spending time with my Mom during those 7 years, gave me more satisfaction than almost anything else I’ve done in my life.

Looking towards the next decade, I know to pay more attention to relationships, than to career, awards, money, travel, etc. Because, I’m certain that it’s the way I interact with the people I love, that once again, will be most significant when I reach the next turn of the decade in 2030.

I plan to be here and happy, and hope you will be, too.