10 Things I Have Learned This Year

1. Getting older means I am being asked now more than ever, ‘when will Theo propose?’ or ‘when do you think you’ll have kids?’ Man I can’t even look after myself yet, give me a chance. I am not ready for kids yet and I have learned that this year.

2. Mental health changes you. It certainly does but I have come to terms with the fact that’s OK, and I am happy being the calmer and less spontaneous person I was over the past few years.

3. Acne is a fucking pain. Yep at 26 years old I am still covered in spots and they won’t go! Help me anyone please. Stress related maybe but I need these boys gone by my birthday

4. You can’t please everyone. Also true and something I have learnt this year from having CBT for my anxiety. I am a people pleaser and I go above and beyond to please others but I need to stop it and put myself first. This is also the same for making people like you, some people won’t like you, but again, that is god damn OK!

5. People are kinder than you can imagine. After anxiety strikes it has been lovely to see how many people, whether they have mental health problems or not, are there for you, and are kind to you. It makes it a lot easier!

6. I am more a home bird than first thought. This year I travelled a lot, but I loved coming home for than I had done usually. I found myself looking forward to going home, and I also realised that maybe group press trips aren’t for me. I have only been on a ‘few’ good ones!

7. I need to be more confident with my brand and content. This year I have really put my heart and soul into my blog and I feel it has paid off. I have felt better about the content I am producing and therefore have become more positive! I also think the brands I have worked with has improved because of how my brand has changed.

8. Making time for friends and family is key. I always used to think they’d always be there, and yes maybe they will but putting time aside will ensure you connect with your friends and family on a deeper level. Travel is worth nothing if you have nothing to come home to!

9. Blogging isn’t just about blogging. I have also met some amazing blogger friends this year, who I am lucky enough to say, are now true friends, and I am so very thankful for these guys in my life.

10. Work isn’t everything. I started off the year on a high, new job and big expectations for my career. I end the year in a completely different job, and career path but one which makes me happy. The stress and pressure and tears were not worth the career path I was on, and my happiness was more important. Don’t get me wrong I am so motivated still, but in a different way. This year, I found a better balance in my offline and online life and I also taught myself to say no as well.