Not your typical New Years Resolution…

There’s something about bringing in the New Year that excites me. Yes, I know, it’s just a day that marks a new year, but there’s that chance of redemption for all of the goals that weren’t reached, a time to reflect on the year before.

Although the extra ten pounds never seem to go away as planned, New Years gives me a chance to evaluate my life and make the necessary changes. Something I felt was important was to leave some things in the past. There were so many things that I’ve been holding onto; grief from disappointments and unforgiveness of myself and others.

Forgiveness

I have to forgive myself for all of the times that I didn’t say the things that I thought I should say to people, not making the necessary boundaries that I needed for myself, and for not reaching the goals that I wanted to reach last year. I also have to forgive those who hurt me. I’ve realized that holding onto all of that only makes it harder to look forward to and plan for the future. It’s like putting a 10lb. weight in your bag while you’re traveling. Extra baggage.

Gratefulness

Although I’ve had a fair share of disappointment last year, I can’t help but be grateful for all of the positive things that happened. I was at a toxic job that sucked the life out of me, and right when it became too much to handle, God blessed me with another opportunity. My children are all doing well and my family is healthy and alive. We still have a home and cars. We didn’t have to. Life could’ve gone a whole other way, so I’m grateful. I’m also grateful for the friendships that got me through rough times.

Goodbye

Last year was also a year of goodbyes. I said goodbye to the warehouse that I had for my business for the past few years. It was such an exciting journey and I learned so much, but I felt that it was time to downsize and focus on other things. I also said goodbye to a job that started off as a dream job but ended up being one of the worst experiences that I’ve had.

Resolutions

This year, my New Years resolution is not your typical list of things that I have a 50/50 chance of reaching. I want it to be simple and realistic: Reading the Bible, trusting God more this year, and letting Him guide my steps. Writing more and finishing unfinished books. Getting organized and really focusing on my spiritual and mental growth. Losing some weight would be great, but taking care of my over-all health would be ideal. Eliminate the many distractions that keep my mind so cluttered and unclear. I want to take every opportunity that I can to enjoy the little things and find new experiences.

Highlights

There have definitely been some defining moments in 2023. For the first time in a long time, I’ve experienced joy. After years of depression, I felt the joy that I know only God can give me. It gave me the hope and strength that I needed to keep going in spite of the difficulties that I’ve faced. I definitely was exciting seeing my daughters excel at dance, my youngest son got accepted into his dream school and flourishing in his grades and craft, and my two oldest sons doing well in sports and finding themselves. These are the things that keep me going.

2023 was definitely a year of self-discovery. I learned so much about myself and needs. I really had to recovery from the trauma from past situations that have harmed me. Learning how to self-soothe and rest was food to my soul. Learning my worth and finding my voice has been liberating. Understanding the importance of taking care of my needs has been life changing. Trusting my gut and knowing when to say no, has been healing to my inner-child.

Cheers to love, living, hope, dreams, new adventures, health, and Happy New Year!