Dear 2018, Thank you, Next...

2018: my year of growth

“You’d think as an adult, we’re already grown, but to be honest, adulthood is when the real growth starts…”

(Friendships) My Dad always said, when you get older you’ll be able to count your real friends on one hand, and if you’re lucky… you’ll get to 5. I look at women in my early 20s with 20+ friends and think WOW… then as I look at my peers, I see the number dwindles drastically. With age, you learn not everyone will come, you won’t always be invited and you were born alone. Just because we’ve been friends for 20 years doesn’t mean we have to stay friends for 20 more years. As we grow out of our clothes, we also grow out of our friendships and there’s nothing wrong with that.

(Death) It’s sad and tragic, but I’ve learned that we have to move forward as our loved ones would want us to. This year I lost my grandmother Doris (my middle name is Doris). Even typing it hurts, but she taught me well. When my grandfather (her husband) passed 4 years ago, she handled it so gracefully and I will always admire her for that.

(Shopping) Stop paying full price for everything. Shopping is like a game of chess - be strategic (and not impulsive) with your purchases. Most things will eventually go on sale and everything should have a dual purpose. I love shirts that I can wear in the summer and then pair it with a blazer and jeans during the fall. I love pants that I can wear with open toe shoes and with pumps in the office. With the exception of Carrie Bradshaw, most women have limited closet space so choose your pieces wisely.

(Skincare) Take care of your skin and use SPF everyday (no matter your ethnicity). Your skin will be with you for the rest of your life.

(Actions) I love you are just words… If it’s not backed up with action, honesty, loyalty and consistency. You don’t love me. You love the comfort I bring, but not me. Most of us can be easily swayed with words… he told me he loves me, but does he show you? Friends that say I will be there, but never show up. I had to learn that with/without them, life goes on.

Thank you for reading! What was 2018 for you? Was it also your year of growth? Please feel free to share any lessons you’ve learned below.