"New Year, New Me"

Some people, including myself, find this saying so cliche, but this isn’t just about there being a “new me” this is about a huge life change that I need to make happen.

One consistent theme in my life is that each day brings a new opportunity. A chance to try again, a chance to explore something new, and an opportunity to make a fresh start. This philosophy is ingrained in me. So, I suppose it’s not surprising that New Year’s Day is yet another occasion when this can happen for me. As the time to welcome a new year approaches, I reflect on everything I want to accomplish, the places I want to visit, and the experiences I wish to have. Perhaps more importantly, I think back on the year I’ve had. I consider the lessons I’ve learned and how to avoid repeating them in the coming year.

To be honest, this year was challenging. The past few years have been quite tough for me. I’ve lost a great deal and gained almost as much. Most importantly, I’ve learned valuable lessons about life, people, relationships, love, and myself. November and December seemed to pack many lessons into such little time; it's been like taking finals before the school year ended.

My primary lesson has been taking care of myself. I am not someone who prioritizes herself; I’m not one to say no or do things just for my benefit. I tend to put my needs on the back burner. Yes, it brings me immense happiness to make others happy, to see someone's face light up with a smile, but I often forget that I am just as deserving of that same kind of joy. I overlook the fact that I need to make myself smile. Honestly, this has always been an issue for me, but this year has taught me that it can’t continue. I must keep my best interests at the forefront because if I don’t, who will?

So, in the new year, I will wake up every day and choose myself. Of course, I will still care for my loved ones; that’s just who I am, but I will no longer disregard my own needs if it’s not right for me. I won’t ignore my body, my needs, and my healing just to take care of others. I am the most important person in my life, and when I take care of myself, I can better care for others. Saying no won’t always be easy, but if it’s what’s best for me, then it’s what must be done.