A YEAR SOUL BE-YOU-TIFUL // 2020

12/31/2020

REFLECT & RECHARGE FOR 2021

We all entered this year with a completely different perspective than how it has gone. I'd argue that's probably been for the best, but it's honestly for you to decide. I challenge you to join me in reflecting on 2020's top ten moments. Let's journal!!!

TOP 10 OF 2020

10. Reflect on your bravest moment.
This year I've pushed myself to speak my peace regardless of how harsh or blunt the truth may be. I can recall several times, both professionally and personally, when I have spoken up for myself even in knowing how uncomfortable or upsetting it would be for my audience to receive. It wasn't pretty by any means, but communication is key and it reset the tone for my professional and personal relationships on a track that provided me with peace of mind.

9. What's the best decision you've made and how has it transformed your life for the better?
Honestly, moving out of my parents' home. I loved living with them and they're the most amazing people I know, but it was time for me to really take on this whole adulthood thing. Now that I've moved out, my appreciation for my parents has grown.

8. Wisest words of advice you've received this year?

"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." Romans 5:104 NIV
"When something doesn't sit right with you, say something." - Mom
"The most potent weapon of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed." - Steve Biko
"It is better to die for an idea that will live, than to live for an idea that will die." - Steve Biko

7. Your greatest moment of joy?
My birthday.

6. How have you found peace amongst the noise?
I still pray and journal. I feel like 2020 has been the year of 'alone'. To help navigate this, I've challenged myself to be more consistent with content creation. It helped keep my mind focused on something positive and productive.

5. Your most unexpected blessing?
The amount of time I have had at home because of the pandemic. Since I wasn't able to travel for work, I had the opportunity to take my first graduate level English course. The course was South Africa: Apartheid & Democracy. I loved every minute of it.

4. Greatest gift that money could never buy?
Breath to keep going.

3. How have you taken a leap of faith?
I'm in the midst of giving birth to www.soulcurlykit.com. If you're a fellow curly or have any curlfriends, I highly recommend joining our VIP list to be the first to know when we launch.

2. How have you strengthened your character?
I've learned to release others of my expectations. We're all individuals on our own journey. I can't expect others to act as I would because that's unrealistic and unreasonable. I've learned that when my expectations aren't met, that's life. But when my standards aren't met, that's a lack of communication that then has to be followed up by proof of actions. It takes two to make all relationships work, and I'm learning to be a better team player.

1. What's the go to grow (what's next or what do you need to do so that you can level up)?
I'm going to bet on myself. In the past, I've been so consumed with believing in a job, a degree, a friendship, or a man could fulfill what I'm in search of in this life, but I've learned it's just me. I have the passion and resilience, so after that it's all about having faith over fear. I'm blessed to be in a position where I can live my life freely, so I'm the bag and imma secure me. I don't take my legacy lightly. I am building something so much greater than myself.

HELLO, NEW YEAR!

Every year, I cringe over this activity, but once it's complete I experience so much relief and gratitude. I wish you and your family love, joy, peace, and good health in 2021.