process your experiences and shed those layers away. We are not our past, especially any traumas that might have occurred or resurfaced this year. It is okay to process those emotions and memories and then move to your next step of healing.
Finding peace and acceptance of those situations will help you in the future. The art of serenity has helped me tremendously with processing a lot of things I experienced this year. It was hard to accept that there are some things that I just can’t control, but I learned that It’s okay. Everything isn’t meant for you to control! You will drive yourself crazy trying to do so. So spend less time wondering about the why’s and the would’ve-should’ve-could’ve. Spend more time thinking about the type of energy you want in your life and how you can learn from the past. Note that everyone doesn’t have the ability to process their emotions and do vile things as a result. That’s not on you and you have to be okay with that!
Not to be a self-care bible thumper, but focus on watering yourself. New Year, Better You! It’s time to reorganize our emotional baggage and make space in our minds for new memories and experiences.
4. Self Care, Self Love, & Self Confidence
As you decompress from the year, it’s okay to relax! Treat yourself to a nice warm bath or massage. Go take yourself out to dinner or an adventure in your city. Start your days by speaking life and love into yourself. Turn on your favorite album and dance around your room. Explore areas of interest that you haven’t had time to. Go do it all! It is so important to find ways to refill your own cup. Self Care, Self Love, & Self Confidence can look like many things.
For some, looking good equates to feeling good. My favorite Instagram Reel audio at the moment is literally “When you’re feeling down, get your hair done (3x)”. That moment you look into the mirror after a fresh cut or hairstyle is always top-tier.
Even if you need a booster that’s more affordable, going on a nice walk in your neighborhood or at a nearby park is a nice start. Last winter I literally became a workout warrior in the spirit of wanting to physically and mentally feel better.
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As I mentioned earlier, it’s beneficial to participate in things that can give you a sense of pride. For me, it was my physical health that taunted my mental health. However, taking that time to learn about my body and mind at the beginning of my journey was amazing. Not only did I learn that I’m stronger than I think, I learned that I look damn good doing it!
I’ll be honest, it was a task creating the discipline to truly invest in my life. Though tedious, please know that the investments are beyond worth it. Now, this isn’t me telling you you have to be in the gym to be happy. I’m telling you to set a realistic goal that’s an investment in you and work hard consistently at accomplishing it.
Now go on and do your best to enjoy your winter! Don’t hesitate to reach out to people you miss and love on those around you. Remember to treat yourself and to treat yourself with care. You are a warrior and I’m determined we’ll all conquer the cold together. In the words of Cookie Lyon from the show ‘Empire’, “I gotta put me first, Luscious!” You are the key to your future. Stay warm, be safe, and have a wonderful holiday season. See you in 2023!
Dynecia Clark is a 23-year-old HBCU Recruitment Intern/Project Associate with SPEAK Up! She is also a Clark Atlanta University Alum