Many times as we move through life, we are so focused on the next thing. The next trend, the next job, the next relationship, the next thing we “have to have,” the list continues. Rarely do we stop and reflect on how far we have actually come. As 2023 came to a close and 2024 seemed to come plowing through…I did something different. Instead of immediately focusing on what I didn’t have, I started with what I DID have. I pulled up a picture of my younger self and I wrote her a letter. The goal was to focus on what I had accomplished and sit in that celebration for a second. I thought back to all of the highs and lows, the successes and failures. The challenges that at the time felt like they would break me. I reflected on the moments I doubted myself, but stepped into the doubt and tried anyway. The moments when my talents were overlooked, my passions were deemed “too extra” and my dreams were dismissed. I looked back on the paths that seemed uncertain, yet I paved them anyway. The moments when I put the needs of others before myself because I was raised that making others happy and pleasing others was the goal, and that taking care of my needs was selfish. I looked back on the moments when I put my worth in the pockets of others, and external validation as the driver of my purpose. All of this noise of the teachings of my youth was the source of my new year’s reflections. And this…this moment of pause…this moment of reflection, stopped me in my tracks. I immediately printed off the picture of my younger self and stuck it on my bathroom mirror. I decided that this year, as I move forward in my goals and continue to step into my power, I will never forget where I came from. I promised myself that in all things I do…that my younger self would feel proud. I vowed to myself, that I would continue to become the adult that my younger self needed, to put light into this world where darkness seems to overshadow. This practice of reflecting on my younger self, and writing a letter will always be how I check in with myself. It will always be my moment of grounding, my moment of taking responsibility for who I am meant to become…I challenge you to do the same. Take a second and walk in the steps of your childhood, write a letter, and let your younger self know who you became. I encourage you to sit in your celebration and be proud of who you are, and who you are yet to become…I promise you…it’s worth celebrating! See my letter to myself below:
Dear Sally,
You are stronger and more resilient than you realize. The challenges you face will shape you, but they will not break you. Embrace them as opportunities for growth and learning.
Trust yourself and your abilities. Some people will doubt them, and in turn will make you doubt yourself, but you have talent and passions that will guide you towards your purpose.
Follow your heart, even when the path seems uncertain. Believe in your dreams and never underestimate the power of hard work and perseverance. Remember to prioritize your well-being above all else take care of your body, mind and spirit. Trust yourself and rest when you need to rest, taking a break is not weak it is you recharging to come back stronger.
Nurture yourself with love, kindness and compassion. Seek support when you need it, and surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. You will come in contact with all kinds of people. People who will hurt you and people who will inspire you…you will learn beautiful lessons from both. Know that you are worthy of love and happiness. You are deserving of all the good things life has to offer.
Allow yourself to experience joy and laugh freely to love deeply.
Know that you’re worth is not determined by external validation, but by the love and acceptance you have for yourself. Embrace the journey ahead with courage, confidence, and an open heart, and know that I am here for you cheering you on every step of the way.
❤️ my adult self🥹