As we approach the middle of March, I’m having thoughts of what happened just a year ago. What I’ve learned about myself and my personal growth this year has been obvious, to me. This pandemic has been a blessing in disguise if you seek the positive. Yes, there are some positive things we can pull from this year. I’ve even said to my kids “you know guys at this time last year when ya’ll went on spring break, you never returned.”
At this time last year, we all went through a lot. I’ve said in a previous post the same time we went into quarantine both of our vehicles were totaled due to a severe hail storm. I remember when the storm happened we felt completely deflated and had no idea what we were going to do. My husband and I looked at each other and said “welp, we just going to take it day by day.” Which leads me to five lessons on what I’ve learned this year about myself:
Slow Down
You’ve heard me say it before over this past year, that God sent a clear message he wanted us to slow down, live in the moment, and enjoy the families He gifted us with. Being constantly busy doesn’t mean you’re living. In actuality, especially children, want you home and available. Children want that structure and disciplined home even if they don’t seem like they want it. Just sitting and being with one another is more valuable than anything. Those are the memorable moments that will be talked about years from now. Create moments.
Make Myself A Priority
As a mom and wife I’ve been guilty of putting myself on the back burner to ensure they are taken care of and have everything they need. Along with taking care of myself, I had to get over feeling bad about it. This year I quickly got over that feeling of guilt. Now I make it a point to watch a tv program, get a spa treatment, take care of my hair and nails, and treat myself. Honestly, thats what my husband and kids would want me to do.
Ask For What You Want
Another hard lesson for us all, is to ask for what I want and not be shy about it. Have you ever compromised or blatantly not said what you really wanted? But you see someone else get exactly what they want and then you get upset with them? What I’ve learned this year is to not compromise myself at the expense of someone else. This is very difficult for many of us. When someone asks you what you want, say unapologetically what it is you want or need. They are asking you for a reason and we owe it to ourselves as well as the person asking to be honest
Protect My Mental and Emotional Wellbeing
This year I’ve really been consistent and good at identifying what’s good for my mental health and what triggers me. Protecting my peace and calmness has been a major priority and focus. To do so, I had to not feel bad or worry about hurting others feelings in the process. I am no longer afraid or shy to exit a situation or place to prevent it from raising my blood pressure. Therefore I haven’t been as tense and on edge.
The last thing that has become clear is my career and financial goals that I’d like to achieve. For the first time this year, I’ve verbally stated aloud what I’d like to do in the near future career wise. Side Note: I will share my career goal when I reach it, I’m a firm believer in not sharing until it has manifested. Financially, I’ve become diligent in educating myself to ensure we are as financially responsible and financially literate as we can be.
There is no doubt that we all had a life lesson this year, some good and some bad. No matter where you may fall, we all can learn something. It’s very important to reflect and see how far you’ve come. Reflecting can provide direction, clarity, and understanding. What has this past year taught you about yourself?
RosalynLynn
Be you so you can be free.
