Time to Reflect on 2019

December is the month where I feel it is time to reflect on 2019. I am compelled to measure all that I did for the year. I question if I did enough in all areas of my life.

This year I didn’t publish the book that I worked so hard on. It did teach me to listen to my editor after the first edit. That was after unpeeling all the layers of my security blanket. I felt vulnerable and exposed, naked even.

What it did teach me was that I didn’t have to be in a race. A race with myself that is. Being in a race would have meant that I missed what was going on around me. It also meant missing out on meaningful moments if I had done that.

Instead, it made me more aware of the importance of being patient. The last few years have prepared me for that in so many ways.

Progress not perfection

I didn’t get my dream body, but I did get stronger in the process. I still ate my favorite sweet things and was even a couch potato on some days. In the end, though, my times in the gym outweighed the times of feeling lazy.

That alone meant that I was consistent. I call that winning. I was mindful of my relationships and tried to cultivate them further. I am sure that I got on my husband’s nerves at times. However, I did try to be a good person overall. No one is ever perfect, and I have my share of flaws.

This year made me think hard about the person that I wanted to be. I let go of things that no longer served me. In return, I held on tighter to the things that did.

During this time of measurement with my goals, I chose to give myself grace. The very idea of saying that I didn’t do enough doesn’t make sense. This year brought opportunities to learn new things, discover more about what I love and the chance to spend quality time with people.

Keep on moving forward

It meant taking new risks, a considerable leap of faith and a strong desire to keep on going. Sometimes that was hard to do when I received rejections. I questioned whether I should keep this blog, pursue becoming an inspirational coach and finding a new career altogether.

Yes, I have had my days of self-doubt, but I have had my encouraging days too. It makes me look for the real diamonds in my life.

I am grateful for still wanting to learn new skills in this ever-changing world of technology. It has helped to ask others for tips on what I can do better.

As the new year approaches, I reflect on my word for 2019 TIME. It was a great word for me. My 2020 word is REFINE.

You see, I look forward to honing my craft. Along with that comes improving in other areas of my life as needed. For me, it is about recognizing who I am and who I am not. There isn’t room for not good enough.

This year has not been a waste, but a blessing with all the good that was in it. The same way that I believe I am good enough, you are too. I invite you to believe that you deserve this.

So, here’s to 2020 nurturing all the areas that need that extra-special love. A new year means another chance to make my dreams come true, impact a life, be a role model for my kids and inspire my audience to do it too.

Thank you for being a beautiful part of my year.