A Year Can Change Everything

 

If someone told me last November what my life would look like today, I am not entirely sure I would have believed them. 

The past year has been full of changes (some expected and others completely catching me off guard). I have experienced professional changes, personal growth, heartbreak, new challenges, and moments that forced me to reconsider what I actually want out of life. 

Three things in particular stand out to me…

First (and this is big for a recovering people pleaser): I’ve learned that advocating for myself is not optional. Whether it’s in my career, my relationships, or my personal life - I deserve to have my voice heard. I don’t have to make myself smaller to make others feel comfortable. 

Second: I’ve discovered that I am capable of navigating change - even when I don’t have it all figured out. Change is REAL uncomfortable. But staying somewhere simply because it’s familiar isn’t always the right choice. 

Third: I’ve learned to appreciate the people and little moments that make my heart feel the fullest. The low key evenings, the laughter, the people who continue to show up, and the moments that don’t need to be photographed to be meaningful. 

I don’t have it all figured out. I am still growing, still learning, and still working towards the life I envision for myself and my family. 

But I am damn proud of the person who made it through another year. 

THAT is worth celebrating.