New Year. Same You
A few months ago I started a workout program, and so far it’s been great. I log on January 2nd and their new marketing promo is “New Year, New You.” So original. I’m not quite able to put my finger on why I find this motto annoying, I simply do. Just because it’s a new year doesn’t mean you’re a new person, or that you have to aspire to be one. The teacher in me is always looking for teachable moments, why can’t your past be one? There’s no problem with a little constructive self criticism. Anyone can be “new” in the next 5 minutes; instead find some value in your past and use your faults as a learning tool. Why do people find it difficult to embrace their full self? Pobody’s nerfect, and that’s okay.
If you haven't already done so, take some time to reflect. What did you learn about yourself in 2018? What were your weaknesses and what are your new found or re-fortified strengths? Do new boundaries need to be set? What have you implemented (or still need to) to make sure a shift happens? For example, I learned I bend over backwards and overextend myself, for people I care about. Actually, I already knew this, I didn’t know how detrimental certain behaviors could be to my psyche and general health until last year. I spent too much time around people who were manipulative, selfish, and didn’t care about me. I allowed them to be inconsiderate of my boundaries, and instead of paying attention to pink or glaring red flags, I offered them plenty of excuses. I don’t like making people the “bad person,” so I tend to wait till shit hits the fan. I need concrete evidence, when the truth is, I should simply believe who someone is the first time they show me. God gives discernment for a reason. I’ve learned to re-trust my gut, period. I did my best navigating some pretty tumultuous situations, and I’m damn proud of myself. If you know you did your best with what 2018 had to offer, good for you! You’ve learned and now you can do and be better.
Next, forgive yourself, and let that shit go. This may be easier said than done, but you have to let the dead weight fall. Sometimes I have to mentally repeat, “be gentle with yourself.” I have to remember the grace I so easily extend to others, sometimes needs to be sprinkled on me. In spite of it all, I feel grateful for 2018. I know my strength and resilience. All the hard stuff gave me clarity and helped me become a better version of myself. Did you survive the chaos? YES! Pop a bottle of bubbly, baby. Give yourself the credit you deserve. Celebrate! Now is the time to love on yourself and nourish your soul. Take steps, teeny tiny baby steps if you must, to evolve and flourish. Live your best life, love! Be consistent and refuse to let failure be an option.
Cheers darling, may we all have a fuck n!gga@ free 2019!
What did you learn last year, and how are you going to make better choices in the future? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments.
