2019 was a HUGE year of growth for me. In some ways it was just another year, but in many ways I learned so much about myself. I've experienced a lot these past twelve months and I wanted to share a few things that this year has taught me, ways I have grown as a person, and events that have changed my perspective on life. Maybe some of these can relate to you as well!
Move To Dallas
Of course this made the list! Dallas has had such an impact on me. It's my first solo move and I'm hours from family and most friends. Although I've made great friends here, it's still very hard when the people I'm closest to aren't with me. However, Texas has also been amazing in so many ways. Like I said I've made awesome friends, and I've also love this city! There's so much to do here and in so many ways I feel like I'm meant to live here. Every time I move I learn more about myself, and this move was no exception. I think the biggest lesson I've learned here is that even though I am very independent by nature, it doesn't mean I'm not prone to loneliness. (Thank you therapy for helping me deal with that one!)
Therapy
Just like in 2018 I made huge strides in therapy this year! Last year was the first time I had ever gone to therapy, and although it was a great move in the right direction, the kind of therapy I was in wasn't exactly what I was looking for. I did cognitive behavioral therapy, but what I needed was more of a discussion based therapy. So when I got to Dallas it was important to me to find a therapist who would essentially be a sounding board for my thoughts. Luckily I found just that! My current therapist has really been one of the best things to happen to me in 2019. She's shared insights about me just from listening to me talk about my thoughts, and I've learned an incredible amount about how to deal with life when it doesn't go as planned.
Love Life
Don't get too excited y'all, I have no news to spill π. But this year has been a crazy one for me. I've run into a few promising guys, made some friends, and avoided some creeps. I actually went on more dates this year than I ever have, and although nothing too serious has come out of it, I'm proud of how much I've put myself out there. Getting back into dating has also made me more aware of what kind of guy and relationship I want. Hopefully 2020 has some good love vibes in store for me!
Vulnerability
Oooo this year has been a doozy for vulnerability! I've always been one to keep my feelings to myself, but this year I've been testing the waters with being vulnerable. This has mostly been related to my love life, since vulnerability comes along with that territory. When I was first making the decision to be this open, I was actually having breakdowns with how much these emotions were taking a toll on me. Once I opened up I felt a weight off my shoulders, but making that choice was so so difficult! It's still nerve-wracking to be so open, but despite it leaving me open to get hurt, it also has led to wonderful heart-felt connections and conversations.
Adopting Nina
Oh my little girl! I love Nina with my whole heart, but she is absolutely a handful. She's still a crazy kitten, but her personality is definitely STRONG. She loves to scream, loves to attack feet, and will eat (almost) anything you put in front of her. But with all her craziness, she's also a cuddle-bug who is the biggest momma's girl. Though she tests my patience a lot, I love her so so much. She's taught me how to be a better pet parent, and has also helped me be a more responsible person.
Mental Health Is An Ongoing Process
As I said earlier, I made great strides in my mental health last year. But 2019 was the year I fully grasped what it's like to be working on your mental health. Just because I'm in therapy and on medication doesn't mean I'm 100% every day. I have so many good days, but the bad days come right along with them. Every day I have to remind myself that it's normal and okay to have ups and downs (thanks therapy!) and that it's up to me to work on bringing up my mood.
Being Myself
Okay, I know this one seems silly, but that advice older people are always giving about being yourself 100% is actually solid. I thought it was ridiculous for so long, especially because I
thought I was being myself. 2019 was the year that I realized I was diluting who I was because I was afraid people weren't actually going to like me (once again, thanks therapy! π) Once I slowly pushed that fear to the side I saw people were more open to getting to know me and I was much more at ease getting to know others too. Life is SO much easier once you give in to being you and not caring what other people think of you.
Travel
This past year was amazing amazing AMAZING for travel. Since I was in middle school I had dreamed of going to Greece, and it finally happened! It was everything I had dreamed of and more, and I can't wait to eventually go back. Traveling always brings growth, and this trip was no exception. I love exploring other countries, cultures, and customs, and it makes me feel like I get to connect with humankind a little more. I also traveled to a few other places this year, but my cruise trip was superior to them all!
Finance
Oh money, how thou aren't my friend. This year has been a little rough with spending. I got a little out of control, but it's time to real that in! The growth in this department is that I have realized I haven't been as responsible as I need to be. I had my year of fun, but 2020 is all about SAVING and being financially savvy!
What are some ways that you grew in 2019?
