The Girl in Gucci Glasses

As I sit here typing this blog, binging the new season of Mighty Ducks, sipping on a local IPA, and thinking about my life on the eve of my turning 32 I am filled with so many thoughts. The primary one is gratitude. This year has not been without its challenges, but during those challenges, I have found comfort and grace when remembering the many reasons I am blessed.

Focusing on blessings is so sobering. When you write down your reasons for being happy and think about what (or who) last brought a smile to your face, your problems suddenly feel so small.

But what else is new?

Well, the blog and podcast have grown significantly since last year, and yours truly has a couple of great partnerships which, even if they haven’t led to me being an overnight millionaire, feel great. Because at the end of the day, these things mean people see me. They hear me. And they (ideally) like what they see and hear. And try as we might, we all want to be recognized and appreciated for who we are at our core.

Younger me thought life just fell into place once you hit 30. And to an extent, it does. You become more secure, you are holding down a steady job, and you are doing more of what you actually want to do. All of these things can be true while accepting that you are still a work in progress. I mean, aren’t all masterpieces?

So what’s ahead?

Honestly, when I think about my future, I think about one simple goal: happiness. I want to live my truth, surround myself with love, be good, and above all else: do good. I don’t have any plans set in stone. I would love to grow my brand, continue helping small businesses with their marketing and design needs, and just live more freely. I found peace in the silence during my time in quarantine. During that time, I realized I didn’t always have to be go, go, go. I was able to embrace the now. So that’s kinda my goal. I want to grow, build something to look back on and feel proud of, and just…enjoy life.

So whether you’re 21, 31, or 101 – embrace the journey. Find solace in the simple things. Keep your circle small, but mighty. Never stop chasing your dreams and passions. And surround yourself with love. And for the love of all that is Holy – never stop smiling. Life can be a beeyotch, but you are stronger than you think.

Oh, and don’t be a dick. That’s actually prime advice. Humans have it hard enough – we never know what any of us are silently battling. Choose kindness.