first of all, happy new year everyone!!! Here's to a better year filled with lots of laughter and joy :-) I celebrated the new year with some of my favourite people in the world and it was honestly one of the best nights yet. I suppose it's right when they say the company is what matters most, because last night was the best ending to 2013 and a such wonderful start to 2014. I remember myself sitting in front of the computer typing out a long appreciation post for the people in my life in 2012, but I've decided against it this time, mostly because of the lack of time. Nonetheless, 2013 was a great year for me, and the people around me definitely had a huge part to play. There have been times when I felt really helpless and upset with myself or everything in general, and many times when I've looked at others and wished I were them or that I had what they had. It's hard not to feel bad about yourself or envious of others in today's society when so much attention is being placed on appearance. Of course with every year comes a new beginning and I too have changed a lot since the previous year. I'm proud to say that I'm more independent, decisive and aware of my wants/ needs/ goals now. Looking back on 2013, there are certain incidents that I wish did not happen, and certain times I wish I did not react the way I did - but I guess that's the point of living in the present because if we're always fearing what the future may bring, how are we to really appreciate the essence of living?
I've never been one to make resolutions (especially new year ones) because of the fear of not being able to achieve them, but this year I'm going to include some that I've given a lot of thought to in the past week :-)
Stay thankful
I'm a really blessed and lucky girl in many ways, especially in terms of my family and friends. I believe the people we meet and keep in our lives are a huge key to being happy, and I'm grateful that I have so many amazing people in mine. Like how I mentioned earlier, there have been times when I've felt envious and insecure, but looking back, it was probably because I failed to remember what I have. This holiday, I've gone to bed with a full heart almost every night, and it's something I hope will remain in the future year(s). Also, "You could be the moon and still be jealous of the stars" - I think this is something everyone should keep in mind, that we will never be fully pleased with the way things are going for us, or even the way we look. At times like this, I choose to remember that although I may not have everything I want, I have enough and that's what matters the most.
Focus on the bigger picture
In 2013, I decided to focus on positivity and I'm glad I did. It was one of the best choices I've made, and I'm sticking to it. It's impossible to stay happy 24/7 for 365 days, but we're all human - it's okay to break down, it's okay to be not okay and it's okay to need somebody. We all need tears once in a while, to wash our eyes so we can see life with a clearer view. Most importantly, you have the right to be happy. There will be people who will try to knock you down with careless words or actions but what's most important is to keep your head up and get on your feet. Filter out unnecessary comments which will not do any good to your mood/ life, and reflect on the ones that will make you a better person. Indeed, why place your self-esteem in the hands of others?
Step out of my comfort zone
I think this speaks for itself. "Live in the present".
Before I end I think there are a couple of people I really need to thank for always pulling me up onto my feet when I hit rock bottom - you know who you are :-) Thank you for making me laugh so much till my tummy hurt, for sharing my bad times and good times, and for reminding me that I wasn't as bad as I thought I was.
Here's to 2014 and all the good moments to come x
