2017 was an absolute jam-packed year for me- it was filled with many ups and downs, however, most prominently with many life lessons. Please join me, as I review my top 5 lessons & top 5 cherished moments of 2017
Top 5 Lessons of 2017
#1. Make it matter
As time continues to fly by, my gratitude continuously multiplies. My job has allowed me to travel to diverse places, meet incredible people, open my mind to different opinions and ways of life as well as, spread & “plaster” the stories of inspirational people I have met along the way. People whose voices have been silenced by the denial of their basic human rights. I am honored, humbled and grateful every day for my job, the people I meet and the responsibility I have to “be the change I wish to see in the world”. Remember: do what you love and love what you do but, most importantly make it matter.
#2. NEVER stop pushing your comfort zones.
Great things NEVER came from comfort zones. After a lot of practice, I finally managed to kitesurf! Kiting has taught me so much about myself as well as, what I am capable of achieving when I put my mind to something. The water sport was always an undertaking I dreamt of, however, I NEVER thought I would accomplish. After being FLUG, WHIPPED, PULLED, DRAGGED and SPLASHED around the beach and water, I persevered (To this day, I still don’t know how I did it!) and found my passion. For more details on the journey check out my article written: “I Was Meant to Kite”
#3. Express yourself.
Do you ever wish you could go back in time and hold on a little tighter for a moment? That if you knew what was coming maybe you would have cherished it a little harder or expressed yourself differently? Whether you are in a new relationship, friendship or plain old just living your life- finding the courage to express yourself through actions, words or various media, is so important. This year I have learned how important it is to COMMUNICATE and talk about uncomfortable issues with the people you love. I have learned that communicating can avoid regret as well as, can change your future. Finding simple ways to express to those around you, how much they mean to you is so important. Now, go! Get up and go EXPRESS yourself.
#4. Your vibe attracts your tribe.
Plain and simple…🍍🔆Good Vibes = Good People!🔆
#5. Happiness.
I have struggled with finding myself as well as, seeing life as the beautiful entity it truly is! I know what I want, however, I sometimes struggle with the notion of how to get there, and tend to be my biggest critic. This year I learned that: “Happiness is letting go of what you think your life is supposed to look like and celebrating it for everything it is” – Mandy Hale
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Top 5 cherished moments of 2017 (preferred order may vary)
#1. Hiking the Great Wall of China (3 Times!)
I consider myself EXTREMELY lucky that I have a job which allows me to travel around the globe. This year I was lucky enough to climb the Great Wall of China 3 times because, of my work!
The climbs were filled with such exciting events: A “prom-posal” (If you are questioning what this is, don’t worry, simply Google it!), inspirational life chats, MANY “What is life?” moments, and finally an abundant amount of aggressive Chinese selfie takers.
#2. Living through 3 back to back HURRICANES!
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Ladies and gents, it’s Harvey, Irma & Maria! Sandbags and lots of luck = Not much damage to the apartment, friends, and surrounding! Thank you to everyone who sent me positive vibes, kind words, and messages throughout this time period!
#3 Hiking to the base camp of Mount Kilimanjaro.
A big check mark was added to my bucket list this year after climbing to the base camp of Mount Kilimanjaro – none the less, with twelve – 12- year- old’s!
#DreamJob #Tanzania #Kili
#4. Being HOME…
When you are on the road most of the year, you tend to miss the simple moments and sacrifice experiencing milestones with some of the most important people in your life.
When home, I am reminded of how lucky I am to be surrounded by incredible, inspiring and supportive humans. No matter where I am in the world, how I am feeling or what I need – I know my humans, my people, my tribe will ALWAYS be there for me.
I am so grateful for my cheerleaders.
#5. Seeing Asher school finished!
After two years of working in the Dominican Republic, twenty trips facilitated, two schools and an Alternative Income project built – I am left feeling proud. Asher School is projected to be the best educational institute on the North Shore of the Island. I have had a blast working with the community, but most importantly they have taught me so much about myself.
Help me continue to be inspired, and tell me all about the lessons you have learned this year and your accomplishments!
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