First, thank you all for responding to my post.

Angel, in regards to my business, marketing has two distinct problems. First, I serve a rural area in NW Oklahoma, where customers are plentiful, but they’re spread out all over creation. Second, I’ve run into financial roadblocks due to slow and non-paying customers. I think that’s the biggest frustration with my business in a nutshell. I had three very large projects that defaulted on terms and are in judgement right now, the only problem is, some folks don’t even pay the judgement against them. Professionally, that’s why I’m looking into alternate sources of income. I’ve been in business for 10 years so, like you, I don’t know how employable I am, and I don’t relish the thought of working for someone else again either.

Neil, I actually got on the trainer this morning for about half an hour. It was good to get the blood pumping again. My plan for the week is to do an hour a day, regardless of how I “feel”. Maybe I can force myself into movement again. Season kicks off in about a month and a half, so I’ve got some work to do if I’m going to be competitive. Lots of work. Thanks for the prod.

Ztwilliams, I lost my Mom to ovarian cancer in April of 2012. Like you, I stepped in to help out Dad with arrangements, housework, etc. He’s still a healthy man, but it’s amazing how silly little things like cleaning out the refrigerator just escape him. I’m beginning to think he likes fermented orange juice. As far as negative influences, I’m trying to weed them out or at least keep them at a distance. It’s difficult. I’ve known some of them since I was in grade school. It seems the longer you know someone the harder it is to change the parameters of the relationship.

Kline, I completely agree that if you seek you shall find. The biggest problem I’ve really faced is wondering, “what am I seeking?” I’ve got a good friend of mine that is an expert marksman, but even with all of his specialized training and equipment, he can’t hit a target if he can’t see it. I’ve always been goal oriented but lately I can’t seem to focus on a single goal. Everything’s become convoluted. I hope that my post doesn’t indicate the fact that I’m unhappy with where I am, or how I’ve come to be here. I am blessed beyond measure. I no longer take the simple things for granted. Whether it’s enjoying the sunset, wrestling with my kiddos or just sitting on the couch watching my family, I enjoy my life. I just need a new direction, a goal or task I can put my heart into.

Mark, passion at 60? So there is hope! I’ve never gotten into meditation, but I’m willing to give it a shot. My wife and I took some yoga classes together last year, and we still have a set of yoga videos, including one that does a guided meditation. I’ve always had an issue just getting still in my mind. I’ve read several books on different CEO’s, successful venture capitalists and the like. One thing they all had in common was a dedicated time frame, everyday, to plan or meditate. On a side note, interesting you mentioned chopping wood in your response. I recently purchased a splitting maul and split a couple of ricks last week! Great exercise..

Once again, I sincerely appreciate the advice, from everyone.