I'm not going to be a different person in 2017 -- and why should I? It's a chance to recharge and refocus, not completely restart. What I will do, though is take all of the lessons from the past year to help me do just that. Therefore, I have compiled a list of the aspects of the past year that I'm leaving right there, in 2016.
1. Negativity
I'm switching out my “can't do” attitude for one that day suggests I can, and I will.
2. Self-Loathing
I'm leaving behind the vision of myself that views flaws and taking on the ability to see all of the wonderful things about myself.
3. My Undergrad
After 3.5 years and many hours in the classroom, I am taking my diploma with me and leaving all of the stress and pressure of completing my undergrad in 2016.
4. Working in Retail
Although I had a wonderful experience at Nordstrom, it was a one-and-done situation. Once I walked out the door for the last time, I knew I couldn't expose myself to the peer pressure of jumping on sales and using my discounts for unnecessary “things” ever again.
5. Alllllll My Money
With that being said, I'm also leaving my life savings (thank you Nordstrom) in the past year. I am giving up mindless spending and taking on the habit of saving my money and being more responsible in 2017.
6. Unhealthy Relationships
This is not specifically about significant others. I am leaving behind any and all people who don't make an effort for me. These relationships strain us and no one needs that kind of person in their life. That goes for a friend, significant other, and anyone in between.
7. Baggage
I am leaving behind all that is unnecessary. My excess junk, clothes, accessories, and emotions that are in the past. They are unnecessary. It is the start to declutter my brain and therefore my life.
8. “Diets”
I'm giving up being on a diet. I'm not on a diet. I'm in a lifestyle of making good choices with food and exercise because I love myself and my body: not because I hate it.
9. Alcohol that Isn't Tasty
Now that I've turned 21 in 2016, I'm old enough to drink. I don't need to be sipping on anything that makes my stomach turn. I'm much more sophisticated now, though, as I enjoy long walks on the beach, all kinds of wine, and a Bailey’s on the rocks whenever I'm in the mood.
Above all, I enjoy a nice toast of prosecco when it is deserved. To 2016, I toast to learning who I do and do not want in my life. I toast to my sister and brother in law, and to my brother and his fiancé. I toast to completing my undergrad while living my dream of becoming a barre instructor. I toast to the new relationship I found this year with a boyfriend who supports my decisions, respects me, will watch Suits with me even though I slept through the majority of the first 3 seasons, and who has kept me laughing since the day I met him. On this New Year’s Eve, I will toast to the lessons I learned in 2016 (and the things that I am leaving there) and to bringing a new attitude into 2017. Cheers!
