I know some seriously great people. I really always have. I've been blessed to be continually surrounded by seriously wonderful individuals in a multitude of ways.
And yet, I am often throwing myself a pity party around how these people that I know do not always know me. I have given these people the collective power of being the ones to contact me and read my mind about wanting to get to know them better.
I was recently chatting with a friend over winter break and we agreed that we both "suck at reaching out." I do not blame this friend for anything. However, after the conversation, I realized that I don't suck at reaching out. What sucks is my attitude surrounding me reaching out to my friends.
That is why I have decided to listen to one of my words (or phrases) for 2025- Smile and Reach Out. Instead of feeling grumpy that I "have to be the one" to reach out, I want to make a goal of finding the joy of knowing fabulous people that I want to spend time with. I will be working on changing my mindset to "I get to reach out and get to know my people better."
I am excited to truly get to know the people surrounding me.
I also love how this goal (or resolution since this feels basic) coincides with last year's goal to leave my apartment or bring someone into it each and every day (and I did it!). 2024 was all about making sure I wasn't letting myself stay stuck. This year I will add to this by making sure I am also fueling my love for people and distaste for being alone. Because I GET to have inspirational and excellent company around me when I let them be.
Texts rarely go unanswered and people love talking about themselves. So why would I put these opportunities in a box with a frown? I love learning about people's stories!
I am not going to make this a quantifiable goal because the whole intent is to make genuine connections and not dread these encounters. I found in 2024 that I had to get creative about how to leave the apartment and would not look forward to going out in frigid temps or rainy weather. When I reach out, I want to put on an unforced smile and just enjoy it.
My second phrase for 2025 builds on what God has been teaching me as I have been growing closer with Josh. "Let yourself be loved." I have found that I overthink things in my relationship based on previous heartbreak. I am beyond thankful that Josh loves me with patience and understanding. I am lucky to have him and I am looking forward to allowing my barriers to be broken and show a bit more vulnerability.
I know it won't be easy, but it will be worth it.
So here's to 2025. Politically, yes I am nervous. Personally, I'm excited about what God is going to do.
