Today is my 28th birthday. Whoa. That's crazy to type. If I look back to last year's birthday, I was "officially" entering my late twenties and life looked pretty, pretty different. I also try to feel out themes for my year and this past one was definitely one of change and rediscovery.
So, in the spirit of starting a new year of life, I'd thought I'd share some of my favorite things that I've done in the past year/lessons I've learned.
Mental health is as important as physical health: I finally learned how necessary it is to take a mental break every now and then. Whether it's meditation or just going to bed at 10 p.m., practicing self-care is now such a priority.
It's okay to say no: Adding to the previous point, it's okay to not say yes to everything. From blog events to work to maintaining healthy friendships, life can be a lot! I'm starting to finally grasp being choosy with my time and who I spend it with.
Travel and explore: Over the past year I've been to Israel, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Vancouver, Las Vegas, Florida, Chicago, Yosemite, New York and so many more! I've grown so much from meeting new people and experiencing new places that it's definitely on the top of my list this coming year. Some places I'm dying to go? Iceland, Paris, Palm Springs and Nashville!
Embracing change: I'll be honest, I like having control (of my life, situations, etc). Soooo, maybe that makes me a control freak. Regardless, life is funny and never really works the way you want it to, right? Well, too bad. Either buckle up or get off. This past year there was some pretty significant change that initially freaked the living f out of me. Luckily, I had an i n s a n e support system that made every life transition that much better.
Giving myself credit: This isn't tooting your own horn, this is all about giving credit when credit is due. I've stopped being so hard on myself for every little thing and it feels pretty badass. Ran 4 miles? HELL YEAH. Wrote a badass concept for a brand? Yes & yes. Being kind to yourself is the nicest thing you can do.
Purging unnecessary stuff: For me, this was a bit challenging when it came to clothes. But, after I did it, I felt like an utter BADASS. I felt free. And light! And so happy. I now only have things that truly make me happy and try to keep the clutter at bay.
Cheers!