Birthday Reflections

On the eve of my 49th birthday I wanted to spend time reflecting on my past year, these are a few of the things I wanted to know: 

• What have I learned in the past year?
• Have I changed? For better or worse?
• What was my most/least proudest moment?
• Did I do my best to be my truest self?

These questions may sound pretentious to some but to me these are the starting points that lead to true reflection. Answering these questions honestly, even just to myself, is not an easy task but a worthwhile one if you are looking for change or improvement. 

Did I learn anything new or about myself in the past year? I think we can all say yes to this one having to navigate through the "new" normal brought on by Covid 19. Outside of that I learned how, by applying myself to being more creative, I have found an outlet to relaxation as well as a rekindling of an old dream. This brings me to my proudest moment, when people said they were inspired by my progress or something that I wrote. I lived on the high from that for awhile. My least proudest moment is still a work in progress, as I keep looking for validation outside of myself. I'm slowing working through this by setting boundaries and continuing to manage my inner dialogue.

Have I changed in the past year? Physically that is a resounding YES. When I joined MyWW it was with a goal to lose weight, period. Little did I know that in doing so it has changed my mindset as well as my relationship with food. Although my body has changed significantly my mind still needs improvement on being accepting of the slow progression. 

The one thing that has stood out the most is that I would not have achieved, or even attempted, any of the above without the support of my family and friends. I am incredibly fortunate to have a family that is so encouraging, without being naive to my faults, and who can reign me in if needed. My circle of friends has grown to include some fabulous women who inspire me daily to keep on this journey. If I can  give back a fraction of the support I receive it will be a great thing.

I am not going to pretend that I was successful in all aspects of my life; however I am extremely proud to be where I am today. As I look ahead I am hopeful that this time next year I will welcome the half century mark a happier, healthier and wiser human being.