Lessons of 2017
Happy 2018, my loves! Another new year filled with endless opportunities and growth ahead of us. But, before I officially say goodbye to 2017, I wanted to share some of the lessons I've learned that turned out to be the best blessings in my life thus far.
1. Self love.
In the beginning of the year, I was going through a lack a confidence in myself and didn't find myself to be good enough. But, it took a lot of changes in myself to be where I am today. A lot of reflecting on who I am as a person, and who I wanted to be for myself.
2. Don't close your heart to love completely.
I grew into the mentality of not wanting to be with anyone this past year. Due to heartache and trust issues, I never wanted to give my heart a way to anyone again. Until one day, I unexpectedly met someone who would become a special someone in my life. Someone who not became my other half, but my superman. So humbly blessed to have him in my life. He made me believe in myself, and in love once more. Trust me when I say the best things in life come unexpectedly.
3. Believe in the unexpected moments.
I think one my favorite moments from this past year was meeting a special someone in my life. He opened my eyes to the things I failed to see. He saw me and fell in love with me for I truly am. For that, my heart was open to loving once more. Who knew that someone like you could mean so much to me?
4. Cherish your time.
I've come to terms to live each and everyday to the fullest. Time is so precious in our lives, and we take it for granted. Time isn't forever. Enjoy life! We will have our bad days, and good days. But, that doesn't determine a bad life. Have faith.
5. Capture the special moments.
I have some special moments on my Snapchat memories and even in my photo album on my phone. Special moments deserve to be looked back on, so take a picture or even vlog them! (I have some vlog footage that I haven't posted on my YT channel.) You don't necessarily have to post it for everyone to see, but have them as a keepsake to whenever you want to look back.
6. Be open-minded.
Whenever there's a new opportunity in your life, don't be afraid to take it. Sometimes, we miss out on opportunities because we let fear get in the way. For me, I've always felt bittersweet when change came to mind. But there is nothing wrong with change, change is good. Having an open mind has allowed me to be open my eyes to opportunities, people, and new places.
7. Stop caring about what people think.
This year, I stopped caring about what others thought of me. Because when I did, I let the negativity get the best of me. But now, I let the negativity pass by. I don't live my life to please others, I live for myself and desire to live my life to the fullest.
9. Take solo trips.
I love taking solo trips because they have allowed me to take time to reflect on my life and learn more about myself. Go anywhere honestly. Anywhere that your heart desires. For me, I love taking trips to the city because I find myself content with my surroundings and just taking a breather from life. But, I do love taking trips out of state, like traveling to CA to visit family and other things.
10. Do what makes YOU happy.
This past year, was a year of self love and focusing on what made me happy. Although I love traveling, I couldn't travel much because of school and work. But, that didn't stop me from taking trips to the city. Also, I have always had a love for writing and giving advice so this is how my blog came to life. Lastly, I love doing photoshoots. Being able to create my own fits, and showing my personal styles. It feels so good. I'm so happy and I hope you continue to find your happiness.
11. Be grateful.
Each and everyday, I find myself being grateful. For the good days and the bad, because they have molded me into the person I am today. For the people who have loved and supported me, thank you. No words can express how much I truly am thankful for the love.
12. Forgiveness.
This past year, I went to CA to spend a couple days with family and friends. This gave me the opportunity to talk to my sister and reconcile with her. This is just one out of the many acts of forgiveness that took part this past year. Take the time to forgive the ones who may have hurt you. And see how life will feel lighter than before.
13. Explore your passions.
Not only has blogging been a big part of my life this past year, but exploring new places. I love going on IG or Yelp and finding new places to bookmark so I can go on my free time. I took a trip to the city for a shoot a couple months ago, and the more I went I found myself falling in love.
14. Spend time with your loved ones.
As we get older, and schedules get busier it's important to make time for your loved ones and family. I love doing simple things with my parents. Going grocery shopping and going out to eat makes me feel balanced because despite my crazy schedule I still make time.
15. Not everyone you lose is a loss.
I've come to the conclusion that I can't blame myself for people that leave my life. I have no control over them and their wellbeing. It's okay because it's life. In life, there are people we meet that come and go. If we lose one, we gain another.
16. Explore your relationship with God.
These past couple of years, God has truly blessed me growth and opportunities. If it wasn't for Him, I wouldn't be the person I am today. No matter what comes my way, I know His plan is greater. I am grateful and blessed for all that he has given me, and for the blessings to come I'm ready.
February 2017. || This photoshoot holds a special place in my heart because it was in preparation for my blog. I took a trip to CA tp visit family and took this opportunity to work on a photoshoot with a new friend.
October 2017 || This photoshoot was for my Fall Lookbook which I'm most likely going to post sometime soon. This photoshoot really showed myself in it's truest form. Thanks to my good friend, Dale of course!