Wow, what a year it’s been! Quite the emotional rollercoaster, to say the least. Age 26 was a crazy, yet liberating year for me. I learned so much about myself, and I’ve never felt more comfortable in my own skin than I do right now. I wanted to discuss some of the hardships from this past year, because I think Instagram has a way of making people believe that life is perfect all the time. While it’s true that I am very happy right now, nothing is perfect and life is not always rainbows and glitter all the time.
This year has been challenging — there have been plenty of ups and downs. I’ve had strangers become best friends, and, sadly, best friends who have become strangers. I went through a breakup, and learned that sometimes the right thing is the hardest thing and I would rather be by myself than in a relationship that doesn’t feel right. I learned that having a few close friends is so much better than having a bunch of not so great ones. I learned that other people can be selfish, and they will disappoint you even when you have the highest hopes for them.
Most importantly, I learned that how others treat me is not a reflection of how I should feel about myself, it’s a reflection of how they feel about themselves. I used to care way too much about what other people thought about me, until one day this past January when it dawned on me that my opinion is the only one that matters. Once I realized that, my life became a whole lot simpler and happier.. and it’s the day I decided to start this blog.
I had the absolute best weekend spending quality time with amazing friends who mean the world to me, and who I am so lucky to spend (almost) every day with. I am feeling SO incredibly loved after receiving countless calls and texts from coworkers, friends, and family members who wished me a happy birthday. I am so lucky to have so many amazing people in my life.
While this past year has been challenging emotionally at times, I wouldn’t change a thing. Everything happens for a reason, and I am so thankful for that. I can only imagine the opportunities that lie ahead and the memories that are to be made over the next 365 days. I know the best is yet to come. Let’s do this, 27!
xo,
Ashlen
