What are you most proud of yourself for this year?

This year I’m MOST proud of myself for leaning into my stillness instead of chasing productivity. During the last half of the year I rested, reflected and reset more than I intended to. I sat with my own thoughts. I trusted my own intuition and I listened to my own voice which told me to seek solitude and embrace my quiet season.

I took a step back from hosting my book club. I took a step back from writing on my blog. I took a step back from teaching journaling and self care workshops.

We live in a noisy world and unfortunately I got caught up in its chaos. More than often I found myself trying to follow other people’s path instead of creating my own blueprint. 

The best thing I did for myself this year was take a step back from meeting everyone else's needs so that I could identify my own. 

2023 reminded me that the problem with serving others first is that sometimes you forget to feed yourself. I love helping others and that will never stop. Moving forward I’m going to be more intentional about refilling my cup as I pour into others simultaneously. 

This year I’m most proud of myself for prioritizing my joy. From solo walks, to concerts, to poetry events, to women's circles, to family outings, to lunch dates with friends, I did multiple activities to feed my soul and for 2024 I’m challenging you to do the same.

For 2024 I'm challenging you to get back to yourself and rediscover who you are. 

Here are a few ways to help you get started:

1. Take a walk

If you’re on the East Coast, I know it's freezing outside but throw on your hoodie, lace up your shoes, grab your headphones and go take a 30 minute walk on the treadmill or around the track at a gym. For everyone else, enjoy a walk outside! I walked for 50+ days in a row until I got sick and it gave me so much clarity. Some days I had Rod Wave’s album Nostalgia blasting in my ears but most days I walked in complete silence. Just me, myself, and my thoughts. 

When’s the last time you listened to your own thoughts? 

It’s something that we all avoid but should do more often. During my solo walks I was able to think without disruptions and distractions. I was able to set new intentions and goals. I was even able to come up with new ideas and create action plans to implement them. 

2. Reflect in your journal 

Go grab your Nurture Your Soul Journal and flip to a blank page. If you don't have one you can purchase it here: https://a.co/d/8hXUbZ7

At the top of the page write down this question: What do I need? After you identify what you need, you can create a method to fulfill your needs at a later time. The first step to change is awareness. Start small and prioritize the one thing you need that will make the biggest difference in your life right now. 

3. Change your environment

A new environment and a new experience can change your life! Get out of the house and out of your comfort zone. Do an activity that brings you joy. Surround yourself with people who inspire you. Conversations are so powerful and have the ability to widen your perspective. 

4. Rest

Do absolutely nothing! Remember that “rest isn't just about restoring your energy, it's also about giving yourself enough space to reflect so you can strengthen your perspective.” 

One thing that 2023 taught me is that not every season in our lives will look the same. Some seasons are for reflection. Some seasons are for discovery. Some seasons are for joy. Some seasons are for rest. Some seasons are for love. Some seasons are for growth.

The best thing you can do right now is acknowledge and embrace where you are!

Leave a comment below and let me know what you’re most proud of yourself for this year.