Not taking life too seriously:

Last year definitely taught us that our happiness can’t come from external factors, because ultimately the only thing we are in control of are our own actions. So naturally, this year started off with me making sure I controlled everything that I possibly could to avoid any of the uncertainty I experienced before. With a steady job and a fresh move back to LA, the control freak in me began to learn that it’s okay to let go. The wonderful new people that came into my life and the friendships that deepened showed me that power actually comes in not taking our years too seriously. Don’t overthink it, it doesn’t have to be that hard. Just take the time to laugh at yourself once in a while, make those mistakes, and it’ll all work out. 

The importance of healing:

More years of adulthood means facing more of your demons that you spent a long time locking away. I always had a mixed perspective on healing – I thought that if I spent the time and effort on focusing on the past it would suck me back into a person I had already grown out of. But I didn’t consider the fact that the longer I put off my healing the more it would continue becoming a burden on my present and future self. This year taught me that I desperately need to fill up my own cup before I can fill others. 

It’s okay to not know what’s next:

My first year post-grad living in my own apartment came with a lot of monumental moments. I feel like I truly learned how to be an adult, dealing with the hard stuff but also enjoying some luxuries I used to never have like being able to cross off new traveling spots on my bucket list. I finally had an in-person graduation this summer which brought me so much joy to go back to the campus that shaped me into who I am today. I also went through ups and downs of the corporate world, really gaining some important lessons there as well. 

I usually know what’s next every time I write these yearly reflections, but this year I really don’t. And I’m okay with that. I definitely have some important goals in terms of the person I want to be next year, but sometimes there is beauty in just letting life happen to you as it is. 

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Cheers to 2022! Wishing everyone a happy and healthy New Year’s Eve – until next time!

-AT