From www.dearash.com

Happy New Year, everyone! I can’t believe it is already 2017. In past years, this would seem like it would be light years away. But time flies, and it is here and ready for us.

I find that with each year, we have highs and lows. Not every year is smooth sailing. Maybe overall your 2016 was great, or maybe overall 2016 was awful. Either way, I can guarantee you gained more wisdom about yourself and your life this past year. And you don’t have to put that knowledge to waste.

Whatever hardships you faced in 2016, you can take what you have learned into the new year. Whether you learned more about yourself, or your interests, or from mistakes you have made, they can add incredible insight to you and your life.

In 2016, I realized how much of a people pleaser I am. This was something I was pretty blind to for years. After having props in my life torn down, I understood a lot of my motives behind my actions. Because of realizing this about myself, I have focused on improving this part of myself. And one of my goals in 2017 is to continue pursuing a life not revolved around caring for the opinions of others. I want to love others whole heartedly, but not lay my foundation down on their opinion of me.

What did you learn in 2017? About yourself, about your future, about your interests, about your strength, about what you want out of this little thing called life?

Do not forget about your discoveries.

Yes, chances are you will go through more hard times this year (who am I kidding OF COURSE YOU WILL), but in this process, you are learning. And in learning there is growth. And with growth there is incredible character.

Instead of looking to 2017 as just another year, look at it as a time full of new opportunities. Sure, there will be hardships. You have no idea what to expect. But if you turn these hardships into rewards, this year will make you a better person, I swear to you.

Be excited for this new year. Make goals for yourself. Reach them. Don’t be the 90% of the population that forgets about their resolutions, and stick to your word. You deserve it.

Yes, you have learned plenty in 2016. But the real question now is, what will you learn in 2017?

Xoxo,

Ash