Every good little girl (and boy) is taught (cajoled, forced, berated) in school to follow instructions.

We are told instructions are very important. Big, bad things could happen if you don’t follow instructions.

Someone smarter, older, and probably better-looking than you created them so pay attention. They know what they’re talking about and, by default, you don’t.

“Read the manual” is basically the same mantra. Do it the way I tell you and no one gets hurt.

But what if someone does get hurt following the instructions and reading the manual? What if that someone is you?

I’m adopting a new mantra this year… out with the good student following orders and in with the new (whatever that looks like!) … are you with me?

I scribbled the Seth Godin quote and sketch with my new Sky Wi-Fi Smartpen, a Christmas gift from the parents. I’ve been mooning over this pen for longer than I’d like to admit. It’s a writers dream, a poets friend, and an artists gift. I can write anywhere and have my notes instantly synced online to my Evernote account. I’m in love and I don’t care who knows it!