Some Lessons from 2012

Thinking back on this year really pulls up a lot of emotions for me. 2012 has been, by far, the most noteworthy year of my entire life.  In terms of great, monumental, and challenging experiences and opportunities. I've gained new relationships, ended unhealthy relationships, and cultivated meaningful connections to those who inspire and comfort me on a daily basis.  I also moved into my first real, adult studio apartment on the last day of 2012.

My biggest take-aways from this year are:

• Transition.  Life is all about change.  The more willing you are to accept that change and find some sort of routine and comfort in it, the easier it will be on you.  If a situation is too painful and you cannot feel growth, make steps to enact a change of your own accord.  Transition is natural... unless you are so beholden to a certain condition of life that you are unwilling to let go.. but even then, life changes ad when your attitude doesn't, you get stuck and become resentful.  Some circumstances are not under your control, but your reaction and your mindset are. If you take control of those things, it is almost as if you are taking control of the transition in your life.
• Express your gratitude to be alive to those surrounding you. When you are nice and go out of your way to help strangers, you will find they are more likely to do the same for you.  If you look for the good in people, more often then not, they will show it to you.  Overlook some negative things, not everyone is on their A game all of the time.  When you show acceptance, you will personally feel the difference and will get rid of that negative energy faster. AND, when you tell those around you and that you love, how much they mean to you will feel that love returning back to you. Rejoice in their good qualities, because they bring out the best qualities in you. 
• Loving your job is just as important as loving your personal life.  Make your space and find places where you can show your strengths instead of hem and haw over your weaknesses.
• You don't always have to be happy or feel accomplished, but when you recognize that you are stagnent and unhappy with it, you can work and make that different. Ambition can come in waves and that is okay.
• If a relationship is unhealthy for you, it is unhealthy for everyone who is touched by that relationship. Walk away.  You don't need an excuse.  

If you would have asked me last year where I would picture myself, it wouldn't be here and things have changed that I thought were steadfast pillars in my life.  Yet, right now, I know that this is where I am supposed to be.  I am excited to start a new chapter and to learn and grow within an area of stability that I have never known before.