So what has the past year taught me?

It taught me that I am stronger than I could have ever imagine.

It taught me that I am the best Mom for my child, but being the healthiest Mom is also really important.

I learned that although I am a Mom, I am also an independent woman with an identity that doesn’t revolve around my child. It is OKAY to want and have your own identity!

I learned that I cannot do it all and have become receptive to help.

I’ve learned that when I need or want something, it’s important to be explicit in saying it.

I learned that I am WORTH caring for.

I learned that my life is precious and worth fighting for.

I learned that I am responsible for my own happiness and it requires me to be proactive.

I learned that to love others, I need to love myself first.

I cannot pour from an empty cup. I fill my cup through my faith, my family, self care, my career, but also, self advocacy.

I have learned not to compare my path to others; we ALL walk through valleys, even though mountain tops are easier to see from a distance. Battles are fought in the valleys.

I learned there are always options available, even when it doesn’t feel like it.

I learned how important it is to show grace to others and how soothing it is for the soul. Showing grace to myself is just s important.

Life is less about absolutes and more about balance.

I’ve learned to stop my train of thought when it gets negative and ask myself “who told you these things?” The answer is always “no one.” So why think them?

I’ve learned to listen to my inner voice when it tells me to reach out to a friend and say something kind and check in. Sometimes, that friend is me and I need to remind myself I’m doing great.

Some of the harshest expectations placed upon me are those of myself.

I learned to pay close attention to my thoughts, feelings and emotions in order to validate them, find the source of them and correct them if needed.

I learned that I relied heavily on the validation of others; the healthiest form of validation is from myself.

I finally learned that I. Am. Enough.