Looking Back at 2017 & Forward to 2018

If I thought 2017 was full of changes and events (which to be fair, it was), then 2018 is going to be a whirlwind of a year. While some things didn’t go as planned this past year, I lost a few relationships with people close to me but gained even greater ones, I can honestly say I’m pleased with my overall experience and looking back with an abundance of fond memories.

I started off 2017 with a trip of a lifetime to Ireland with two of my closest college friends and went on few really great family vacations, including a Royal Caribbean cruise. I had two dream internships in New York City and had a blast during my final semester of college. This December I finished out 2017 on a high note, as I completed my bachelor’s degree in Journalism in three and a half years, making me officially a college graduate.

I’ll be kicking off the New Year in Maine, visiting with my boyfriend and his family. Looking forward to 2018, I’m bursting with excitement (and just a tad bit of nervousness). Being finished with school, in 2018 I will be moving away from home, starting my career, and seeing what this next chapter in my life entails — and that’s just to start! Just like everyone else this time of year, I’m trying to think of ways to better myself in the new year. Some of my resolutions are below.

Stop Stressing About Things Out of My Control

Nothing is certain for 2018 (or ever, technically speaking). I’m between school and employment, making me unsure of what I’m even doing next week. As someone who tends to plan out every aspect of my future, that’s terrifying. But I’m learning to be okay with that. I believe that God has a plan for each of us and we will end up where we are meant to be. Stressing about things we can’t control doesn’t help anything.

Journal Every Night

I got into journaling for a little bit last Spring but lost it pretty quick. I want to get back into journaling and make it a nightly habit. I’m obsessed with bullet journals but haven’t had the patience to start my own. That’s going to change in 2018! I want to use the journal to keep track of things like daily gratitudes and monthly goals. I love these ones for inspiration!

Save Money — But Still Have Fun

In the next few months, I will potentially be moving away from home which means a lot of new added expenses. I really want to start preparing now for whatever 2018 will have in store for me which means saving up as much as possible, while still enjoying myself. I want my 20s to be some of the best years of my life so I definitely won’t be saving at the cost of my social life. My goal is just to be mindful and conscientious of where my money is going. I downloaded the app Mint and am loving all of its capabilities in helping me view my purchases, set financial goals, and manage my bills.

Practice Yoga More

This fall I took a yoga class at college for an hour and a half twice a week and fell in love with the practice. Yoga allowed me to relax, destress, let things go, and feel more grounded, all while providing me with a good stretch and workout. For anyone tempted to start yoga but unsure how to, sign up for a beginners class at your local fitness center. You won’t be disappointed! I use to think all of the buzz around yoga was misleading but now I’ve totally been bitten by the yoga bug.

Do More of What I Love

Sounds simple but sometimes time gets away from me. Whether that be snowboarding, going to the beach, visiting unique food spots, or spending time with friends and family, I want to do it all!

Travel As Much As Possible

Slightly contradictory of goal number three, I’m hoping 2018 brings me many opportunities to travel. I was very blessed in 2017 to travel outside of the U.S. twice and visit a few states here and there but my goal is to go to even more new places in 2018. Traveling is worth every penny spent, you can’t put a price on the memories and experiences you gain in doing so. In 2018, I hope to make it back to Europe — and who knows where else!

Be Unapologetic and Selfish (In a Good Way)

This is by far the most important resolution for the new year. I’m 21, I just finished college, I’m starting my career — 2018 is for me. I want to do whatever is best for me and my future. 2018 is for growth, pure happiness, and doing whatever the heck I want.