Dear Readers,

Someone please explain to me how 2017 is already coming to a wrap. This year flew by didn't it? Towards the end of the December, you might catch yourself feeling a little sentimental. This is a great time to think about the year and reflect. When I stop to think about why I write, it's because I hope to inspire others, lift people up, make you all laugh, light a fire in your soul, make you realize how important you are and most importantly challenge your mindset. On that note, let's talk about your year!

It's so easy to let our minds shift to the negatives first, but it's important not to let that overpower your successes. You might catch yourself thinking, "Ugh, another year I let go by without reaching my fitness goals," which is a common New Years resolution that many people lose sight of throughout the year. Don't stress. My friend, Liz Hronek, who has committed her life to empowering others to live a fit and healthy life, likes to remind people it's not about one goal. She challenges her clients to see the bigger picture. She said, "So maybe that one overall goal didn't get accomplished, but what little goals did you meet along the way?"

Ask yourself. Maybe it's that you've taken more time for yourself, cut toxic people out of your life, practiced self-love more often, etc. It will look a little different for everyone, but it's important to acknowledge the little things, even if that might seem silly. These little steps turn into making big goals happen.

Count your blessings. There is so much to be grateful for in this life. Recognize the moments you feel most at peace. What does that place look like for you and what gives you that feeling of comfort? Key in on this and use it in times of stress.

Are you happy? It's a simple question many people forget to ask themselves because we live in a non-stop world and the pressure can be overwhelming. It's so easy to get lost constantly trying to please others, while we so often forget about our own feelings. It becomes so easy to emotionally detach ourselves due to this chaotic world we live; however, it's essential to our health and well-being to release those emotions even if it's just from time to time. Some ideas: write it out, talk to a friend, see a therapist, etc. Just know it's okay to not be okay sometimes. I know, it sounds like I'm an annoying self-help book right now, but crazy enough I needed to read that at some point myself. Truthfully, I wish someone had told me that sooner. Make it a goal in 2018, to do more for your health and happiness.

Realize the hardest moments of 2017 you've already tackled and gotten through. We are constantly given obstacles in life, which become learning moments. You're maybe still feeling some lingering frustration from events that happened this year, but it's essential to process the event and move on. Grudges aren't healthy for anyone.

Now it's coming down to the exciting time to make new goals for 2018. Write a list of things you hope to accomplish and try to make measurable goals. For me, I will be writing two lists. One for my personal goals and another list of activities I want to do/places I want to go with friends. I can barely decide where I want to eat lunch, so when I'm in need of an adventure, I will seek out my list.

Things to remember: Continue to educate and challenge yourself. Follow your curiosities and passions. Fight for the things you believe in. Remember to use your voice. Know your worth and don't let anyone treat you less than what you deserve.

Here's to surviving 2017! Looking back, you may not have accomplished all the goals you set out for yourself, but that doesn't mean you haven't grown immensely in other ways. I encourage you to write a list of all your 2017 accomplishments, you'll surprise yourself. Take your time to reflect, but not TOO much time because 2018 is right around the corner and you better be getting ready for a great year!! You got this.

Much love,

Caitlin M.