what i learned this year 🫶

Looking back at 2024, it truly feels like a year of profound personal growth and unexpected discoveries. Each experience, big or small, added another layer to my understanding of life, faith, and what truly matters. I wanted to share some of the most impactful lessons I learned in 2024, hoping they might resonate with you too. One of the deepest insights I gained was about faith. There were moments when I felt adrift, but then I realized, 'if you feel like God is far away then you're not actually LOOKING for him.' It was a wake-up call that faith isn't just about waiting for comfort; it's an active process of seeking, reflecting, and nurturing that connection. This shift changed my perspective entirely, bringing a much-needed sense of peace amidst life's chaos. Another crucial area was learning how to truly process emotions. I used to quickly move past difficult feelings, but this year taught me the profound truth that 'you have to SIT in it. being "numb" is only a temporary fix.' I learned that 'in order to heal you have to SIT in it.' It's uncomfortable, yes, but by allowing myself to feel, to truly 'sit in my emotions,' I started to understand them, and eventually, to move through them. This practice has been instrumental in helping me 'break the cycle' of old, unhelpful patterns and embrace genuine healing. Relationships also took on new meaning. The phrase 'time is a thief' really hit home. It made me realize the urgency of cherishing the people around me. I started to 'hold everyone close while you can' and actively 'say yes' to last-minute plans, dinners, or walks. These spontaneous moments, whether during summer breaks or busy college semesters (even if it's just a casual bikini day at the pool!), became invaluable. On the flip side, I also learned the importance of healthy boundaries. I had to 'stop making up for what other people lack.' It’s a tough lesson, but 'giving 100% of yourself to someone who doesn't reciprocate it will only drive them away and make you feel like you're not good enough!!!!' This year solidified that 'words cannot love you the way actions will,' and genuine connection requires effort from both sides. Finally, I was constantly reminded to 'do it for your future!!' Whether it was pushing through challenging 'majors' coursework or making difficult decisions, I realized that discomfort often precedes growth. My 'comfortzone will kill you' became a mantra. Stepping out of what's familiar, even when it feels 'extremely hard,' has opened doors to new opportunities and personal strengths I never knew I had. It's about taking those brave steps, knowing they are investments in the person I want to become. These lessons learned in life have shaped my perspective and continue to guide me. Every day is an opportunity to grow, to connect, and to live more authentically. What an incredible journey 2024 has been!