I Learned how to let go.

I realized some people no longer belong in my life…and I let those people go. Like the saying goes “some people are in your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.” I felt like I learned my lessons with these people and I no longer wanted to waste my time. I also let go of … my job. Well actually (I only told very few people and now you, the reader) my job let go of me. Please don’t feel “sorry” for me. I, along with hundreds of other employees nationwide, was laid off from the company I worked for about a month ago. I was there for four years, learned a lot about radio, and formed some great friendships. I was shocked when I got the news, but all I could say was, “Thank You.” What’s ironic is I wrote a blog a few weeks prior stating how losing a job could be a blessing in disguise. I know everything happens for a reason and all I could do was let go and move on. But I already have a few things up my sleeves. Stay tuned 😉

I Learned that I desire reciprocity.

A give and take relationship is so important to me. And I realized that this year. I need reciprocity in my relationships, friendships, and business relationships. If I support you, I want you to support me. If I encourage you, I want you to encourage me. If I’m there for you, I want you to be there for me. If that doesn’t happen then the relationship won’t last long and I’ll slowly remove myself away from the person. People want to feel appreciated, so if they are investing their time and energy toward you and your efforts then you should extend the same to them.

I Learned how to say “no.”

This was huge for me. I usually commit to too many things because I like to stay busy. But I realized I needed to rest. I needed to take time out for me. I needed to learn how to relax. I learned that I can not make it to every event, attend every dinner, or merely hang out just because. I valued my time more this year and learned to say “no” without feeling guilty about it …and it felt good.

I Learned to put myself first.

Like Fantasia said, “Sometimes you have to put yourself first…I’m doing me.” I used to put others before myself… a LOT. So this past year I learned that it’s okay to be “selfish.” People tend to think being selfish is a bad thing, but it isn’t. Taking time out for you to do what YOU want to do is perfectly fine. I learned that my time comes first and I have to work on myself before I could extend my time to others. I took time out for myself to grow, learn, and become a better woman.

I can’t wait to see what 2013 has in store for me. I’m ready!

What lessons did you learn  in 2012? Share your stories below.

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