As November comes to a close, I am looking forward to this winter. That sounds weird considering I prefer warm weather and I avoid driving in the snow as much as I can, but instead of dreading the cold days, I am dedicating this winter to myself and my healing.

I plan to start saying “no” to just about everything, other than the plans I already have, because I want to focus on my inner work. My tasks will include journaling, reading, listening to podcasts, and working out. Maybe I’ll learn a few recipes too! I always say I want to focus on myself and my health, yet I am constantly distracting myself from that with scrolling on instagram and talking to friends.

Don’t get me wrong, I love my friends and am so grateful to have so many good ones in my life, but sometimes I feel like I also distract myself from my own feelings and I get lost in other people’s lives. I have gotten a lot better at it over the past couple of years, but I still have some work to do. If I am living life for me, then I need to know who I am.

I know that I am a caring person, and I want everyone to be happy and feeling their best, but I don’t always take that time for myself. I don’t take the time to celebrate myself, but I get so overjoyed when my friends are excited about their achievements… and I deserve that same love and appreciate from myself! How am I going to sit and be like “no one notices or appreciates my growth” when I don’t do it for myself???

To be fair, I don’t need anyone else’s opinion on my progress (although I will say when my boyfriend notices my growth and applauds me, it does feel good), but my own opinion does matter! I am so grateful for the progress I have made, and I’m also thankful to have so many resources to use while I continue on my journey. I’m leaving all of my self-doubt and people-pleasing in November, and I will trust the process that unfolds. Here’s to a great winter ahead!