Practically speaking blog by Jill Donovan

Life Lessons from the State Fair

You know how they say, There’s nothing to fear but fear itself?Well, that’s not entirely accurate.I’d like to add a slight amendment.You should absolutely fear getting stuck at the top of a Ferris ...

Isolate the Incident

Yesterday, I was with a friend whose phone died right in the middle of sending a text.I was a little shocked by her dramatic reaction.Without skipping a beat, she looked at me and said, My whole ...

Your Window Has NOT Closed

Have you ever wanted to learn to play the piano at 40?Or what about launching a new business venture in your 50s?Picture stepping into an art school at 60, eager to translate a lifetime of experien...

Remove Everything That Isn’t David

Let’s start this year with a game I like to call fast-forward.Go with me to December 31, 2024.358 days from now.What ONE thing could you accomplish by that day that would have the most profound imp...

I Did Not See That Coming

Recently, I have become obsessed with balloons.Never in my life have I really cared about them.Until last month.When it became my new favorite metaphor for life.Now, I can’t get enough. Have you ev...

Unapologetically You

In a world obsessed with fitting in, my family marched to the beat of its own drum.While most of the world was taking down their holiday decorations shortly after the New Year, my mom decided it wo...

Hope Just a Little Longer

For many years, mile 17 of the Route 66 Marathon would pass right in front of our home in November. That day was such a highlight for me. Not because I was running but because I got to be a part of...

Just Ask

Imagine walking into a routine appointment and walking out as part of an extraordinary love story.That’s exactly what unfolded one unassuming morning at the doctor’s office.Behind the desk wa...

Don’t Wish Away Your Week

Raise your hand if you have ever said, “Is it Friday yet?”Now, raise both hands if you ever say it first thing on a Monday morning.If you raised one or both hands, you aren’t alone. It’s natural...

Say My Name

Every morning, it was the same elevator ride.With the same three or four faces.Each one of us getting off on a different floor.Trapped in a vertical box of awkwardness.Staring up at the floor num...