I am writing to you from my annual retreat in Mazatlan, Mexico where I go each year to renew, refresh and rejuvenate my mind, body and spirit. I have learned over time the importance of treating myself the same way I would treat my best friend, sister or significant other, to be kind and loving to myself. When I take a pause and connect with myself, my head clears and my creativity soars. It is amazing how much clarity returns as well as a connection to the larger whole. Each year in Mazatlan, there is a migration of baby turtles to the ocean with the help of the staff of the Mazatlan Aquarium. They ask folks to come down to the beach and hold onto a baby turtle as they are released to the ocean. They fit in the palm of your hand. It is a daunting sight to watch these small creatures make their way to the ocean realizing that they have a small chance of survival as they enter the water. They are also a symbol of hope, dedication, tenacity and fortitude as they are determined to be successful in their quest for survival. We too must quiet our body, mind and soul and connect with the grand scheme. Our success hinges on the amount of hope, dedication, tenacity and fortitude we display on our life journey. Just as the turtles don’t give up, we must take a pause and then jump back in our life focused on our purpose. For some additional reading, I highly recommend The Pause Principle by Kevin Cashman. Take the time to answer the questions and you will begin your own journey to success.