It’s been awhile since I’ve written…but I like that about Substack. There’s no pressure to put out a monthly, weekly, daily post. It’s just here when I have the time and find the inspiration.
Anywho, it’s the end of the year. And, while I consume a ton of “best of” lists (primarily book lists, let’s be honest), some of my favorites revolve around lessons learned or things to take into the new year.
So, with that, I wanted to take a look at my year. It was honestly a great year (well, aside from *gestures wildly at everything around*). I got to travel, I learned and progressed in my career, and I had a great year of marriage.
Here are some things I learned along the way (or…re-learned for that matter):
It’s never too late to change things up. You’re not “too old.”
Winter doesn’t fully suck. It’s a nice, quiet downtime and cozy if you make it. Also, I love snow shoveling. Weird? Sure.
Persistence pays off if you really want something.
It’s really lovely to have some time without podcasts or audiobooks and just to let your mind wander while hiking, cooking, etc.
Some friendships aren’t forever, and that’s okay.
It’s okay to ask for help.
Even if it’s inconvenient or annoying, showing up for those who matter when they need it is worth it.
I can eat chickpeas!!
You’re stronger than you think you are.
Doing something novel on a daily or weekly basis rewires your brain (even if it’s just taking a new walking path!). So cool.
Making friends as an adult is really, really hard.
Don’t try new medication at work…on a video call.
Life moves in seasons.
Recovery is not a linear journey.
Show up to things that scare you. Sometimes it’s a bust, sometimes it works out.
Facebook’s greatest (and really only, let’s be honest) strength? The local Buy Nothing group.
Sometimes you just need to watch Gilmore Girls and go to bed early and everything will feel better in the morning.
First class is really all it’s cracked up to be.
Ordinary, everyday routines are really special. Make them special.
Women still have ways to go…and society is still overwhelmingly misogynistic.
Learning is SO cool.
Plans can change, and that is okay.
You don’t have to know the answer.
You can figure it out. Just take a deep breath.
Last year, I wrote down 23 products I loved in 2023. Should I do that in 2024 too? Let me know!
Yes! Tell me what to buy in 2024!!
Love this, especially #12… proud of you and inspired by you always!