Recently, I have heard most people talk about their worst parts of 2018. Sure, I had plenty of bad or off days, but when I reflect on the past year, there was so much more good and that’s what I’m choosing to focus on. I am going in to 2019 as the same me, but with real goals. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in New Year’s resolutions, but this year feels different and I could not be more excited or more ready. Today’s post is also inspired by one of my favorite artists of 2018, Jillian Jacqueline.

I met Jillian on a whim at one of her shows with Kip Moore near the end of this year, which ended up being a highlight for me. She is just as wonderful, sincere and undeniably stylish as you would expect. Even though there was a long meet and greet line, when it was my turn to meet her, she was so friendly and it made me appreciate her and her music even more. She also told me I was stylish (which was outrageous, coming from her) and that my boyfriend and I are super cute (super true). One of my favorite songs of Jillian’s, is “Hate Me” and I’m choosing that as my mantra for 2019. Below are a few goals I have going into what I assume to be a year to remember:

1. Stop apologizing for everything. It is so easy for me to assume that I am the problem with any and every conflict I have. Whether it’s re-introducing myself for what feels like the millionth time to familiar people, or even something less significant, I always assume it’s me and ultimately feel bad about it.
2. Give myself a break. Reflecting on my highlights of 2018, and looking forward to 2019, I am so proud of what I have been able to accomplish. Though starting my blog again has been within the final month of 2018, I am so proud to get this going again for the bigger picture (special announcement coming soon BTW). We are our own worst enemy and sometimes you need to tell yourself you are kicking ass and not to worry.
3. Be patient. I feel this is a daily struggle for me, but something I am happy to keep working on. It can be so challenging wanting something to happen so desperately and immediately, but nothing happens overnight. This is a helpful reminder for me to remain patient and allow everything to unwind.
4. Be Honest. I value my opinions but I feel most times, I keep my thoughts to myself and try to go with the flow and mood of everyone else. Being easy going is a great quality, but i’ve also found how important and valuable my own opinion is.
5. Love more. 2018 was an incredible year of relationships for me. I have the most healthy, respectful, trustworthy and beautiful relationship I have ever been in. Ryan you are the absolute best. Also, I feel like I have one of the most solid squads, tribes; you name it, my people are it. You know who you are (because I feel like I tell you constantly when we’re together) but I want to thank you for your unwavering support and I am thrilled to continue building each other up.
6. Hate less. Honestly, I don’t think I hate anything, but I know 2019 is the year for me to work on being less sensitive. It’s too easy to jump to worst case scenario, and assume everything. I am pushing myself to do this less.

2018 was a great year of growth, love and if it’s any indicator for 2019, I cannot wait. I am proud of the person I am, and continuing to be. It has taken 29 years to feel this confident and comfortable with myself. Not caring about outside opinions isn’t easy. If you don’t agree, then it’s fine, you can hate me, but I will always find a reason to be kind to you and wish you the best new year filled with all of the happiness.