Most people I know are relieved to leave 2016 behind. But not me. No, I'm so grateful 2016 happened.
There I was, bringing in the New Years at a party, where I looked so chic in my 70's inspired jumpsuit, and slick back hair. I had no idea what was in store for me. I just remembered being in a room full of people and feeling lost (I know, I know, I'm such a cliche).
The days that followed were no different from the previous years. I escaped into my own world, filled with books and old movies. I felt like contact with anyone was just too exhausting, to the point where I decided that I wanted to spend my birthday alone. On an Island somewhere. Far from anyone I knew. Same old me.
I knew I needed to change, to stop hiding behind the book I'd been working on for years (and had actually completed in 2015). But I didn't want to. I knew the reason for it all. I didn't feel like my book was good enough. I didn't feel like I was good enough. Writer's block soon took a hold of me and I struggled with my imagination.
Then, the universe stepped in. That's the thing about life sometimes. When it's ready for you, it doesn't care whether you're ready for it or not. It just happens. And it happened to me.
Sometimes, all we need is one person, who can look at us and see the potential in us. Someone who you can see yourself in. I learnt that if I'm to be a successful writer, then I shouldn't be so hard on myself. That I'm not the first writer to suffer from a lack of confidence. That perseverance is key.
Yea right. Easier said than done.
But without making this a long post about myself, I want to say that I found a guru, someone who inspired me to be better, to eat better (currently thinking of trying the Paleo diet). I became a minimalist. I stopped buying useless things, I got rid of half of the contents of my room. I redecorated. I started donating to charities. I wrote more. I drank less.
With that said, I apologize for being so preachy. I wasn't trying to! I wish us all an awesome 2017. May we continue to chase our dreams and achieve our goals. Let us remember to laugh and put ourselves first, but also give back when we can. We won't be here forever, so let's start leaving our mark on the world.
Here's to 2017! It's just waiting to be written! I'm so excited! Aren't you?