52 Weeks of Gratitude. Week 50 (Catch up)

Week 50: Lessons Learned this year

I started this challenge in February of last year because I wanted to get out of my depression from losing my mom. I have learned a lot of lessons throughout this year. Here are some of them:

1.) Life does not stop just because something traumatic happened. It’s confusing, it’s frustrating, and you will feel guilty for feeling this way, but please understand, it is completely acceptable!

2.) People will tell you that time heals all wounds, they are lying. Don’t get me wrong, these people mean well, and they are trying to comfort you, but the loss of a loved one, the break of a strong bond, is something you will never get over, however; it does get easier with time, but you will still have your days where you break down, possibly for the rest of your life…let them happen. It just means you loved so much.

3.) One day someone will come to you and tell you that you are not the same person you used to be. This will be a slap in the face for you. It’s okay that you are not the same person, and chances are you never will be exactly the same, your life has changes irrevocably, however; don’t lose sight of who you are. The person you loved, loved you the way you were, don’t let sadness and despair consume you.

4.) People that you thought you could count on to always be there no longer will be. This is a huge wake up call. Your true friends will stay beside you, they will contact your loved ones to check up on you, they will give you space when you need it, but they will no be out of arms reach. People that you once called “great friends” will fall off the face of the earth, they won’t even bother to send you a simple text message to see how your holding up. Let them fall, let them walk away, they were never truly your friend to begin with, they were only there because it was convenient for them, you don’t need them. Cling to those who truly love you!

5.) People you have looked up to, aspired to be like, etc… will disappoint you. It’s okay, they are human. Allow yourself to feel the disappointment, forgive them, and move on. You will probably disappoint someone else someday, and that’s okay too.

6.) If you are anything like me, you are overly sensitive. Embrace it, stop apologizing for it. You are a person who feels things very deeply. You love with all of your heart, when you fall in love with something whether it be a book, TV show, new recipe, etc… you will take it to extremes, you don’t do half ass when it comes to feelings. Allow yourself to feel all of the emotions that come your way, this is what makes you strong, this is what makes you, you!

7.) You are allowed to take time for yourself. Whatever you have waiting for you at work, whatever needs done at home, whatever is needed from you will still be there tomorrow. Take a day for yourself. Read a book, get your nails done, grab a friend and go to a cafe, whatever it is that will make you relax, do it! You deserve it.

8.) Life is unfair. You will always be knocked back down when you feel like you’ve reached the top. It is what it is. Try not to dwell on it. Dust yourself off, and enjoy life to the best of your ability. It’s your life, no one can take away your happiness. Sometimes, things will happen that is out of your control, walk away. Do what you need to do and wash your hands of it, there is no use stressing yourself out over things you have no control over.

9.) It is important to be a responsible adult. Pay your bills, go to work, keep your car and home up to par, etc… However; you should allow yourself to have some fun once in a while. Life is too short to be anything but happy, so splurge once in a while. Go take that vacation you’ve always wanted, buy the new sweater, eat dessert, go to the new restaurant that’s a little over priced. Enjoy, indulge, everything in moderation!!

10.) There will be times in your life when you have to make very important decisions. Do not make this decisions when you are angry. Allow yourself time to calm down, think about it, and in the end you have to remember that you have to do what is best for you. You may disappoint some people, you may cause others grief, but it is impossible to make everyone happy. You are no good to others if you are miserable, so don’t make any rash decisions without weighing the pros and cons, and don’t do anything important until you have something else lined up (such as leaving your job), but do what is best for you & your family. What is going to make you happy? What is the best way to provide for your family? Do whatever that is!

 

What are some important lessons you have learned?

Love & life lessons,

Kristian