This year I turned 33. To a lot of people that’s really young. To my nieces and nephews, it’s ancient. But to me, it feels just right.
I’ve done a lot in 33 years, more than a lot of people and less than just as many. I’ve competed in countless swim meets, earned my Bachelor’s degree, made some amazing friends, lost loved ones, married the man I love, turned a house into a home, traveled to all seven continents, earned my Master’s degree, survived teaching middle school science for four years, became a mom, and published five books.
Again, more than some people, less than many others.
But a list of accomplishments can’t measure every moment that makes up a life. It doesn’t illustrate my failures, the times I’ve hurt people, the memories I cherish, the growth I’ve experienced, or the beauty I’ve sat in awe of. This world, this life is full of beautiful and painful experiences; how we hold each of them shapes who we become.
If you asked me today to describe myself, I would say I’m light-hearted, stubborn, prideful, adventurous, creative, empathetic, and determined with a fantastic sense of humor. I love to laugh and make people feel welcome. It’s in my blood to work hard and never stop trying to do better. Which sometimes makes me too independent and leads to burn out.
Recognizing these things about myself and owning them have helped me settle into who I am and who I aspire to be. So as you spend another year on this earth, I hope you find peace in who you are and the courage to pursue growth in the areas you want to improve in.