Hi everyone! My name is Vanessa and I am a writer here at Odyssey. This month, I will be tackling the topic of New Year's resolutions.

Growing up, there was always this big stigma around resolutions. "Oh, it's a new year? I MUST feel obligated to change something about myself for a new calendar year." The truth is- it doesn't have to be a new year to make a change in your life. You are in control of your life and you decide when something needs to be edited.

I know a huge resolution many people have is to lose weight or zero in on their health. I too desired such a thing, but at the point in my life I was at nearing the end of 2019 I realized I could do something for myself. Right in that moment. Back in October, I began my fitness journey.

Since then I have lost 20 pounds, to some, it may not seem like much, but for me, it was a fantastic accomplishment. I still have a ways to go, but every day I push myself to try my hardest and remind myself that I'm doing this for me. If you would've told me of 2018 that I absolutely loved the gym I don't know I would have believed you.

I use it as a way to stay healthy, clear my mind and take care of myself. I am proud of myself.

So what is my New Year's resolution?

Saying heck New Year's resolutions and changing my life on my own time.