Reflecting on 2023: My 9 Biggest Takeaways

As we close the door on 2023 and welcome in 2024, I find myself reflecting on the journey of the past year and the profound lessons it brought my way. Perhaps these insights can serve as sparks of inspiration for you, or maybe they’ll save you a few headaches. Let’s dive into my biggest takeaways from the year.

Jealousy as a Guide: Discovering Your True Desires

At the start of the year, I found myself grappling with a twinge of jealousy as my husband embarked on a new educational and career journey. Rather than brushing off the feeling, I embraced it as a guide. It prompted me to ask the crucial question: What do I really want? After contemplation, I unearthed my true passion for coaching, connecting, and collaborating. The realization was liberating, and it led me to acknowledge and pursue my deepest desires.

Tip for You: When jealousy strikes, don’t dismiss it; use it as a compass to explore your true aspirations. Reflect on what sparks envy and investigate why. It might unveil hidden passions and dreams.

Bridges Unburned: Navigating Difficult Scenarios with Grace

Life often throws challenging scenarios our way, testing our emotional resilience. In 2021, my husband and I faced such a situation, but we chose not to burn bridges. Instead, we navigated it with grace and composure (not perfect- but we tried our very best). The unexpected outcome? Throughout 2023, we witnessed the importance of maintaining connections, as we were welcomed back into a community we hold dear.

Tip for You: Practice setting healthy boundaries, but remember that reacting in the heat of the moment can lead to regret. Navigate difficulties with grace, as you never know when a connection might prove valuable in the future.

Trust Your Gut: Recognizing When Something Isn’t Right

A significant lesson from 2023 was acknowledging when something feels off. My previous business had become stagnant, leaving me resentful and confined. It took honesty and self-reflection to realize that I was trying to force something that wasn’t meant for me. Letting go of that chapter allowed me to step more fully into my entrepreneurial spirit.

Tip for You: If a situation feels off, don’t ignore it. Take time to evaluate and be honest with yourself. Trust your instincts and be willing to pivot when necessary.

Prioritize What Matters Most: A Lesson in Energy Management

2023 taught me the importance of energy management. I had been spreading myself thin, investing time and effort into relationships and activities that didn’t serve me. Taking a step back, I reflected on who and what truly mattered to me, making conscious decisions about where to invest my energy.

Tip for You: Regularly assess your commitments and relationships. Focus your energy on what aligns with your values and brings you joy, letting go of what doesn’t contribute positively to your life.

Life Goes On: Embracing Your Own Heroic Journey

In challenging times, it’s easy to feel like the world has stopped. However, 2023 reminded me that life goes on, even when facing personal storms. Embrace the realization that, at the end of the day, you are your own hero. Others may continue with their lives, and that’s okay. Recognize your strength and continue forging ahead.

Tip for You: In difficult times, acknowledge your resilience and take small steps forward. Life is a journey, and even during storms, you have the power to shape your narrative.

Contrast Brings Clarity: Finding Direction Through Adversity

Contrast, the stark difference between what we want and what we don’t, can provide profound clarity. Experiencing what I didn’t want in 2023 helped me crystallize my desires and goals. Sometimes, understanding what you don’t want is the key to discovering what you do.

Tip for You: Don’t be afraid of contrast. Embrace challenging situations as opportunities to gain clarity about your true desires and values.

The Path of Least Resistance: Allowing Life to Flow

After gaining clarity, I chose to follow the path of least resistance. Instead of constantly fighting for what I wanted, I allowed life to be easier. This didn’t mean becoming passive; it meant aligning with my intuition and taking inspired action.

Tip for You: When you have clarity, seek the path of least resistance. Trust your intuition and allow life to unfold more effortlessly.

Recognizing Worthiness: Embracing Self-Acceptance

A significant lesson from 2023 was understanding my intrinsic self-worth. Instead of perpetually seeking self-improvement, I realized that I am valuable right now, as I am. This profound shift brought a sense of liberation and acceptance.

Tip for You: Take a moment to appreciate your unique qualities and acknowledge your worthiness in this very moment. Shift your focus from constant self-improvement to embracing the incredible person you are.

Act as Your Future Self: Manifesting Your Desires

Every day, I challenged myself to act as the version of myself who already possessed what I desired. I showed up as her, embraced her mindset, and made choices aligned with her values. This simple practice helped bridge the gap between my current reality and my aspirations.

Tip for You: Visualize your future self and act in alignment with that vision. It’s a powerful way to manifest your desires and create a pathway to your goals.

As we step into a new year, let’s carry these lessons forward, embracing the wisdom gained from my biggest takeways and fostering growth in our personal and professional lives. Remember, you are the author of your story, and every experience, whether smooth or challenging, contributes to the beautiful tapestry of your journey.

If you resonate with these insights but find yourself needing personalized support on your journey, consider working with me one-on-one. Together, we can navigate the path to self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of your deepest desires. Cheers to a year of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of our deepest desires!