It's time for a birthday post. It's something I think I've done on various blogs since I was in high school, always a little different in format. I think that this year, the last one in my twenties, needs to start off on an optimistic note. Carpe diem!
I'm terrible at accepting compliments. I blush easily. I'm a loudmouth chatterbox who is painfully self-conscious. So a few months ago during a women's leadership course, discovering that I was unable to graciously accept compliments without looking at the ground and being self-deprecating, the instructor forced me to stand, make eye contact, and thank everyone in the room as they paid me compliments. DAMN. It was awful and awesome, because I realized that I don't take enough time being positive towards *myself*.
So today, I'm making this post about 29th Birthday Affirmations. Inspired by one of my favorite viral videos of all time, Jessica's Daily Affirmation, I bring to you my own. I was uncomfortable sharing this at first, until I realized it isn't bragging... it's just the truth.
Today, on my 29th birthday... I like who I am. I like where I am in my career, where I live, and who I'm with. I like the strong bonds of family and friendship that I have in my life. I like that I live comfortably, and that I have a wonderful man and two cats who love on me every day. I like that I went to West Point and served in the military, because I'm proud of my accomplishments there. I like that I pushed myself to make new friends in a new town, because they make me so happy. I like that I'm pushing through grad school because my degree will be valuable to me. I like that I make time for Daughters of the American Revolution and the American Legion, because they give me great bonds and fellowship. I like my book club. I like that I have nice things, which I have earned over time. I like that I know I don't need those nice things to be happy. I like that I have the privilege of enjoying good food. I like that my skin isn't as bad as it used to be when I was younger. I like that I know how to wear makeup now, for the most part. I like that I'm working on getting in better shape, because I definitely like the results. I like that I get to travel and experience so much in the world. I like that I don't care anymore if other people think I'm weird. I like that I can finally be who I want to be, no apologies, #sorrynotsorry.
I like my whole life!!!
Except now that I'm in my last year of my twenties, I guess I have to really grow up and stuff. Sigh. Someone pass me the eye cream and some superfoods!
P.S. I chopped off my hair to donate it again. My head feels lighter, but shorter hair is totally more work. Kicking off my last year in my 20s with something new!
