It’s almost 2018 and you know what that means… new year new me, right? Well, maybe not. Why is it that with every new year, people are so focused on transforming into a different version of themselves that they don’t even take the time to reflect on the person they have become? While it’s important to continue to grow, it’s also important to stop and look back every now and then. Do me a favor and answer the following questions-- you can write it down to remember or you can simply think of it in your head. Do this with me before rushing forward to be a “new you”.
What were some of your biggest accomplishments this year?
I know this year was a big one for me. I got my drivers’ license (second time’s a charm), was accepted into my top college, became Editor-in-Chief of my school newspaper, and won a journalism award!
What was the kindest deed you did this year?
After hearing about all the victims affected by the recent barrage of hurricanes, I went to Walmart with my parents and purchased about $100 worth of donations which were sent to Puerto Rico.
Which hobby/activity did you spend the most time doing this year?
I found that I spent most of my time working; although many people dislike their jobs, I thoroughly enjoyed mine and willingly invested my time/effort into what I do.
What’s something new that you learned this year?
From my class electives I learned a lot about the business world; now, I know a lot about the process of both starting up a company as well as managing one.
How have you (positively) changed from last year to this year?
In the span of one year, I’ve experienced a lot of personal changes and growth as a person. Most prominently, I have found that I no longer look to external forces as sources of happiness, but instead am able to find my peace from within.
What skills have you developed this year?
Between my old job and my new one, I developed my customer-service skills as well as my sales abilities, which will definitely come in handy later on in the future.
What are you grateful for from this year?
Personally, I am especially grateful for the friendships I formed these past few months. I’ve connected with some incredible people that I already can’t imagine living without; I’ve never felt more loved and supported, and I truly am lucky to have met them.
Maybe 2017 wasn’t your best year (or maybe it was), but there are still so many positive outcomes that you can find if only you look for them. So, before you make a list of resolutions or decide to change your lifestyle, stop and think just for a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come.