Colorado

One of my favorite high school mentors posts three guiding principles on LinkedIn at the start of the new year. This man is such an inspiration because he motivated me to pick the university I attended, married the love of his life against all odds, and he and his husband recently adopted their first child together. I wanted to challenge myself, do some reflecting, and chose my own three guiding words – or mantras – for the year.

Detaching

Letting go of past hurt. Not feeling like a burden to others. Continuously healing from past trauma. Lessening the heavy blow on my heart. Looking back quickly rather than mulling over the past. Putting myself first so I can be better for the ones I love most. The true art of letting go — and creating space for current and new memories.

Healthiness

Physical, mental and emotional healthiness. Continuing with dance, therapy and other exercises. Progressing with setting healthy boundaries and radically accepting where certain family and friend relationships stand. Stretching every day (when possible) and pushing myself with dance classes. Learning to make working out fun again. Pushing myself to get back into music and French lessons for mental health and “gymnastics.”

Adventure

(Although I’ve never “not been adventurous”) 😉

Going white water rafting in Georgia. Putting myself out there in dance and elsewhere. Visiting at least one new country with Alex this year. Taking more career risks and discovering my true passion(s). Feeling a true sense of adventure in my heart.