GOODBYE 2020! HELLO 2021!

So it has been a while since I last posted something on here.

As we all know, 2020 gave us a run for our money. The past year was a very eye-opening experience, emotionally, politically, and environmentally. This year has been perfectly imperfect, and while most of us would like to put it in the past and not look back, I want to review some highlights that I am incredibly thankful for. This year, I pushed myself to new heights. I spent a fair amount of the year learning and practicing self-care and self-love. If there's one thing I can recommend to take from this year, it is important to take the time to learn everything about oneself and learn to love yourself for the good and bad. This year I not only learned the power in realizing one's potential and actual ability is endless when ignoring other people's opinions and expectations. I also learned that as much as I secretly missed being in an over-packed subway cart, there is nothing like being surrounded by a small group of close family and friends that can make you feel like you're the life of the party.

Surrounding yourself with people who fuel your creativity and give off positive vibes is key to true Happiness. It is important to remember to take a step back from overwhelming things that prevent you from succeeding. 2020 is a reminder that "it is ok not to be ok!" Life moves on, and as long as we continue to educate ourselves and improve our morals and well-being, there is hope for the future. From a political, environmental, and activist standpoint, I want to acknowledge all the people and conversations that pushed boundaries and were executed to educate others on mental health, racial injustice, and environmental justice. This past year, I have had many discussions covering the following topics. I have always remembered to keep an open mind to different opinions and ideas. I wish to continue to have essential and "uncomfortable" conversations and urge all of you to do the same. There is so much more progress to be made. I want to clarify that by no means did I figure out all there is to life and self-love in 2020.

I am still learning and wish to continue my progress and growth. As I look forward to what 2021 has in store, I want to remind and ask you all to remember to take time for yourself, take a step back, read a book, call a loved one, follow the news, do something for someone without wanting something in return, VOTE!, and try to prevent waste; reuse that bag, and switch to reusable containers/cups. To quote @jenatkins Instagram feed, "Happiness is the new rich. Inner peace is the new success. Health is the new wealth. Kindness is the new cool." Cheers to 2021! 

Until next time, 

Janelle Marie.