Recently, when discussing my wish to repaint the inside of my house, a friend recommended that I bring in a feng shui consultant. I wanted to literally be more “out of the box”—the beige box I’ve called home, that is.
     
I welcomed the help. I understand that feng shui is about freeing up energy in every sector of life, a type of “acupuncture for your home.” During our first meeting, we just talked about my life, where I felt it flowed, where I felt stuck, and what I wanted to create in my life.

She concluded that I had the work thing down too well. I needed to get my home office out of my relationship corner if I wanted to have more relationships beyond work. So we moved my office into the wealth area of my house, formerly used as a guest room and still housing some of my daughter’s things. This bigger space now allows for a second desk for an assistant to take some things off my plate.

We removed everything from my own bedroom but the bed, with plans to add small tables alongside it and hang new lighting. I have found that I sleep much better in this uncluttered space. My clothes and paint easel relocated to my old office, now rechristened a creativity room.

Next, we splashed 22 vibrant colors on every wall and woodwork—varying shades of oranges, deep pinks and soft greens. Even the ceiling was tan. The first week living among this cornucopia of strong, passionate colors, I felt irritated. What had we done! How was I supposed to relax? I wanted my beige back. Apparently, such an initial reaction is a good sign.

By the second week, I was feeling energized and beginning to enjoy the new feel. Now, a couple months later, I’ve noted several changes: my daughter is making big shifts in her life; my painter discovered a fresh romantic interest; and I sold a property listed for nearly two years. I’m still working more than I want to, but I have new help. I’ve let go of physical and mental stuff. I’m socializing more and generally feeling lighter.

This latest overhaul has been a great reminder that we all need to redecorate our lives periodically, and tweak them all the time. What part of your life would you like to redo? On page 26, several local residents share how they have repeatedly reinvented their lives to realize more authentic expressions of themselves, through “Transitioning Careers.” Their stories just might inspire your own leap of faith.

In honor of Father’s Day, our annual Men’s Health issue directly speaks to changes that most men experience. “MANopause” on page 36 addresses men’s own midlife hormone rollercoaster. Other, lighter, male topics range from tips for connecting with their kids (page 40) to creating a healthy, natural lawn (page 19).

I am grateful today for all the men in my life who have supported, inspired and modeled the courage I have needed to leap forward. Especially my Dad, who was still doing cartwheels into his sixties.

Here’s to claiming the life you were meant to live,

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher