Every New Year brings a wave of reflection, almost like clockwork. From TikToks listing the ‘ins and outs’ to our favorite shows rolling out ‘best of’ episodes, and vision board parties sprouting up nationwide, it’s a time to look back and look ahead.
Just before the ball dropped this year, I found myself with my Remarkable, penning down a reflection on my 2023 journey and setting non-negotiables for self-care and wellness in 2024.
The past months have been a whirlwind of work and motherhood. Yet, for the first time in ages, I’ve been truly accountable to myself, striving for ‘better’ rather than perfect. I refused to make excuses for skipping workouts and set a goal to lose 20 pounds—not just for the number, but to feel more energetic, confident, and to be the vivacious mom my toddler needs. Spoiler alert: I lost 25 pounds.
And writing… If I’m ever going to pen that book (stay tuned for more on that), I knew I had to carve out time for it, accepting almost every freelance job that came my way. Even as a self-professed introvert, I pushed myself to forge and reforge connections, understanding the power of community.
Then there’s the fog of motherhood—a constant theme in my life. The first year was the hardest, with postpartum depression hitting me like a freight train. The second year, the fog began to clear, letting me experience motherhood more fully. By the third year, I’ve finally found a delicate balance, oscillating between embracing ‘me time’ and deserving that gold star for mom duties.
Reflecting on all this, I realize that each year, especially since becoming a mother, has been a journey of rediscovery—of finding my way back to myself. It’s been a process of maturing, understanding my needs, and allowing my desires and goals to resonate beyond my own thoughts. Now, stepping into the next phase of this year, there’s a newfound confidence in me. I know I’m where I’m supposed to be, armed with the tools to challenge myself and grow in the directions I choose.
What’s left is simple: to wield these tools, to stretch into this new skin, and relearn how to spread these wings.