Presence, Joy, & the Pursuit of Happiness

Every year I set my standards high and give myself a list of lofty goals that I wish to achieve by the end of the year. Over the past few years I have worked my butt off, and achieved them all and more! In 2021 not only did I publish my first children's book, but I launched my own cruelty free makeup line, and rebranded my entire company...all of which I am extremely proud of. However, as we head into the upcoming New Year, I am thinking about what is it that I want for 2022? What goals do I want to achieve? What does my lofty list look like for next year? The more I think about it, the more I realize that I really want next year to be different. 

This past year I have discover a few things about myself personally. I discovered that I have anxiety and PTSD, both of which have stemmed from my experience with domestic abuse. I realized I am a people pleaser, and how much unnecessary stress that it has added to my life. Most importantly, I realized how absolutely necessary a self care practice is for my wellbeing. 

With all of that said, in 2022 I want to put my goals aside (something very difficult for a Capricorn btw) and focus on being present, having fun, and being happy. My "goal" for 2022 is to find the things that light me up. I realized that with all the focus I put on achieving goals that I have lost touch with what I love doing. In fact, I no longer even know what it is I enjoy doing. I use to LOVE photography, in fact there was a period of time where I wouldn't leave the house without my camera. I use to love drawing, painting, being creative...but I can't even tell you the last time I picked up my camera, a pencil to draw, or a paint brush to paint.

I want to move away for the to dos, and move toward the I want toos. I want to focus on me. I want to set more boundaries. If it's not a hell yes then my answer is going to be hell no, and I want to be unapologetic about it. If you can't take no as an answer then you're clearly not a part of my tribe. Next year I want to let go of the relationships that no longer serve me. I want to make new friends, meet people that get me and get what I am trying to create in life. I want to relax and just be, and I want to be more present. 

The past two years I have given myself a word, and I used that word to describe the overarching theme for what I was looking to accomplish. In 2020 my word was Freedom, in 2021 my word was Growth, and in 2022 my word is Happiness! It's something we often overlook, and it's something I really look forward to focusing on. 

So tell me, what is your word for 2022?

With Love & Gratitude,
Kelly