Reflections
I’ll be completely honest and just say that I was scared shitless at the beginning of the year. I was a fresh college graduate with honestly no idea of what the future held. I didn't have a job in my major, let alone did I even know if I wanted one in that field. I was afraid, doubtful, and feeling very hopeless. After countless sleepless nights, I could not fight the instinct inside telling me to simply follow my dreams. I decided that I would take the year to focus on truly pursuing my passions and I would see where I would go from there. Each day, I tried to wake up with the goal of being more focused and driven than the day before. I began devoting to my craft a little bit more each day. I began to realize that if you truly want something and you're willing to work for it, you WILL see growth.
Growth is not always easy to understand. It is often uncomfortable, confusing, and down right intimidating. Once you have the courage to embrace these feelings they can be transformed into something positive. This past year I learned to plant my seeds and nurture them. I learned that I have to take all that I am given, ugly and beautiful, and turn them into some masterpiece because that’s survival. To get somewhere you want to be, you must do something that you’ve never done before. I’m writing this to encourage you that it is possible to do what you love. Once you truly believe in yourself and your abilities, there is no stopping you.
There will be moments where you are overwhelmed and discouraged. There will be moments when the world is chaotic and unruly. There will be moments when you wonder if all of the work is even worth it. Through all of these times, you must keep on moving forward. Use your purpose and your passion to grow through each of these moments. Be the light and shine. We need you. I hope you read through this and could find some helpful words. I’ve left a few tips that have helped me in 2016. Enjoy! Let’s make 2017 the best year yet!
1. Never doubt yourself
Don’t let anyone (including yourself) tell you that you cannot do something. Sometimes we can be our biggest enemies. Be kind to yourself and have the confidence to follow your dreams. Try meditating to quiet your mind and ground yourself. It can really clear out all of the unnecessary chatter and recharge your mind.
2. Meet new people
If you have not met others in your field then you need to, like tomorrow. There are so many people out there who are also following their passions. Meet them, talk to them, ask them for help, and work together! There is always someone out there that knows more than you and that you can learn from. Don’t be shy (I used to be) and that got me nowhere.
3. Try new experiences
Say yes to as many new experiences as you can. You know that feeling you have when you really want to do something but your too nervous because it’s outside of your comfort zone? Well you know what, DO IT! We’re leaving comfort zones in 2016 along with all the other BS. You’ll never know what you like or what you’re good at until you give it a try.
4. Keep working
24/7, 365, everyday, every second, every minute work towards something. Now I’m not saying that you don’t need a break because everyone needs time to relax once in a while. But each day make sure that you are using your time wisely and working towards something. This means organizing and planning each day so that you’re maximizing your success.
5. Be patient
Be patient. Be patient. Be PATIENT. I have to tell myself this one ALL the time. Remember that Rome was not built in a day. Success does not come overnight, contrary to popular belief. I know us millennials want instant gratification, but that is just not how life really works. Make short-term goals and find ways to measure your success. It really helps.
Thanks for reading! Can't wait to show you guys what's in store for 2017!