I chose five core values. I picked honesty, loyalty, respect, compassion, and security/stability. I did not find it challenging narrowing down to these five as I feel like I try to direct my life choices by checking in with my core values making sure that I'm not compromising them. 

When I continue to be kind to myself and extend grace towards my shortcomings, it allows me to further grow as a person. If I am able to continue to grow as a person, I can continue to nourish my relationships with friends and family, as well as with the environment. 

It reminds me, that even in challenging times, I still have a lot to be grateful for. It also reminds me that when I am facing an obstacle, it is easy to get distracted and forgetful of what is going "right" in my life. 

Encouraging local leaders to implement policies that require a certain percentage of loans or city contracts to be awarded to minority businesses. On a larger scale, wage gaps and workplace discrimination also needs to be addressed in order to support potential minority business owners, as the banks will want to see consistent employment. And lastly, as a consumer of goods, I can support Black (or Indigenous or NBPOC) business owners by contributing my own funds to them so they don't even need to access a loan for their business. I can also encourage my friends and family to do the same.

I think it helps keep my mind sharp and clear. It is also a good form of exercise. I tend to walk with my dog and seeing her enjoy the simple things really helps me also enjoy the simpler things.