Dear 2016, Thank You

Who's ready for 2017?

Yeah, me too. I'm not going to lie, it's been a hell of a year. When I wrote my first blog of 2016, I had very high hopes and expectations for what the year would bring for me, my family and my business. BUT, things did not happen the way I thought or planned. And it seems to be that way for many people.

For the last couple of weeks I have been reflecting on all that happened and did not happen in 2016. I have seen many status updates, quotes and memes all over social media stating things like, "I'm ready for 2016 to be over and done" or "2016 couldn't have been good for anyone." Listen, I get it. I really do. My year started out great and I was prepared and ready for a long list of clients and business connections, but I went through a lot personally, including loosing my grandmother and my favorite college professor. For months I was up at night trying to figure certain things out and worrying about things I had no control over. I let things weigh heavy on my heart and I didn't really talk to anyone about them (which was part of the problem). But I finally realized what was happening to me-GROWTH.

I had to reset my brain and readjust how I saw the world around me.

What does that mean exactly? Simply put, I had to let go of many wordly things and focus on the most important things. The things I can control. The things that mean the most to me like my family, my spirituality & faith and giving to others. 2016 had many highs and lows, but I learned how strong I truly am. I learned that if you aren't growing, learning and living with purpose, you aren't truly living. This year came with a lot of growing pains, but I am in a place where I can say that I am thankful for them. I know that it has truly prepared me for what is next to come. Prayer, meditation and music were my saving graces. My spirit is renewed and I feel refreshed.

If you are someone who experienced some letdowns, unexpected events or negative outcomes this year, I want to encourage you to purge whatever isn't necessary and get back to the basics. Don't stress over the things that won't matter in the long run. Let go of the old and embrace the new. Just keep working towards your goals and surround yourself with positivity.

As the year comes to an end, I am open to all things in 2017. Because my attitude and thoughts are refocused, I can walk into the new year with a positive mindset.

I want to thank a few people who truly made a difference in my personal and professional life this year:

My husband, DeAntony: for loving me through it all and for ALWAYS taking care of things

My mother, Connie: for praying for me and my family each & every day

My son, Preston: for allowing me to see your brillance up close and personal as your teacher and for giving me more patience

My girlfriends: you ladies continue to hold me down and make sure I take care of myself

Randy Patterson: for being such a professional influence from hundreds of miles away

Sandra Nishihata: for being so strong and for such an amazing doula. You are a true inspiration!

Tangie Fleming: for the business tips and connections and positive presence

Catt Fleetwood: for being a badass businesswoman, mother and wife and for being so real

My guest bloggers: for keeping my blog going with your personal, informative and touching stories

The ladies of my Facebook Moms group: for opening up to me and allowing me to be there for you and your families

Thank you, 2016. You have changed me for the better!
​Happy New Year everyone!