Control-Alt-Delete might be a meaningless and random piecing together of computer keys for the younger generations accustomed to typing on a screen rather than a keyboard, but for those of us Gen Xers, CTRL+ALT+DEL was a desperate measure to reboot our computers. This “soft reboot” was designed by an IBM engineer as an internal way for “people writing programs” to reboot without powering down the computer; however, it became a way for me and other users to reboot a computer when it “locked up” or a program failed to operate correctly. According to one website, “As computers became ubiquitous, so too, has the jargon.” Outdated or not, the term CTRL+ALT+DEL conjures up for me definitions such as to “dump, do away with, reset, or escape.”

So, although I offered alternatives and requested input (which still interests me by the way) for a life theme for 2024, at the moment, a new mantra is taking the lead, CTRL+ALT+DEL. Now, I typically prefer that my catchphrases arise from meaningful sources like Scripture and other talented authors; nevertheless, sometimes an image or meme on social media just seems to nail it. Therefore, in place of It’s Just Biscuits, Fear Not, or Onward, I’m opting for control yourself + alter your thinking + delete negativity for 2024 and beyond as I continue this journey to cultivate a flourishing life. CTRL+ALT+DEL plays a worthier role of Capturing the Moment, so to speak, of this particular Season of Life, and of summarizing recent readings like Working from the Inside Out and Awakened.

If you remain interested, let me attempt to explain my reasoning. The first key that is referenced in the reboot is CTRL (control yourself), which I believe is self-explanatory, in that the only thing I truly have control of in this life is myself, in particular, my attitude. The second key, ALT (alter your thinking) is slightly more challenging in that it relates to my mindset or my perspective, and there is plenty to share in future posts on how God is challenging me in this particular area right now, but it is fellow educator Angela Watson’s words that articulate this idea best. “The only factor that you have complete control over is your mindset: the way YOU think and perceive things, and the way YOU choose to respond. If you want to create meaningful and lasting change in your job satisfaction, the best place to start is with your own thought patterns and attitude.” So, rather than indulging the unwelcome Intrusive Thoughts that often arrive, Watson mirrors the ideas shared in Get Better and Improve Mindset that moving in a positive direction with your mind is usually a better option.

Arriving at the third key in the sequence, DEL (delete negativity) means that I must make an intentional choice to remove myself from unhealthy people and environments, when I am able. And for people who embrace the value of loyalty and Stick-to-itiveness, this can be an obstacle which requires the skills of a Wrestling Coach, as it does not come naturally for us to willingly step away. But if I am to educate Emerging Adults on what it means to cultivate the Habits of a Flourishing Life and to be intentional about embracing a balanced life in the Dimensions of Wellness, then perhaps I should heed my own advice.

None of these keys to 2024 will come without a Struggle, but because I have Holy Confidence in who is writing/typing my story, when He is the one hitting the Reset Button, I will find a way to Trust and Obey.

References:

Control-Alt-Delete. (2023, December 26). Definition. Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Control-Alt-Delete

Haanen, J. (2023). Working from the inside out: A brief guide to inner work that transforms our outer world. IVP Books.

Watson, A. (2011). Awakened: Change your mindset to transform your teaching. [Kindle version]. Due Season Press.