On Turning 26
Earlier this month I turned 26. I started writing this post a few days before my birthday, but haven't felt compelled to finish it until now. With everything going on this world, my post about my 25 year old goals felt trivial without first giving some time and space to some of the more important things happening right now. As a writer, I do believe I have a responsibility (and desire) to share my thoughts and encouragement on recent events, and speak light into dark situations. I'll be honest, there's a lot going on right now, and I don't have a response to it all. Not quite. Not one that I can really put into words right now. But to everyone that's hurting, I want you to know that I hear you and I see you and I feel you.
I didn't want to give myself too much time to write this post, otherwise I might start going down the rabbit hole of my feelings about getting older and thinking about all the things I should be doing. (I often think about the ages of celebrities and compare them to myself and my own accomplishments... I don't recommend it. And yes, I know this is counter-productive and not even valid.)There's so much I could talk about, and probably will eventually, but today I just want to talk about two of my goals this past year. Awhile back I had this idea that I wanted to be in the best shape of my life by age 25, and I also wanted to be a wedding planner by 25. Although I can't necessarily say these things happened when I turned 25, I think both goals have taken shape in some form or fashion throughout the past 365 days leading up to 26.
Best Shape StatusAs far as health and fitness, I'm happy to say that I really am in the best shape of my life thus far.
Do I still have a long ways to go in my goals for strength, endurance, flexibility, etc.? Heck yes, always. Do I still eat way too many slices of Casey's pizza and finish boxes of macaroni and cheese? You bet. The difference between 25 and now is strength - physical and mental. [Read here for more background on part of my fitness journey]I can do things that I was never able to do before, like hold handstands for consistent intervals of time. I can also do wall climbs which is something I struggled with so much at least a year ago. I know how to cook a variety of healthy meals on rotation, and I'm always trying new ones to incorporate. I've gotten better at meal prep, and meal ideas and planning come much easier to me now (although still hard to find the hours or motivation at times...).In the past year, I've also met some of the best friends through Tone It Up (it's totally possible to make friends online!). I'm so thankful for our shared fitness interests as well as others, and all the laughter and encouragement that comes with those friendships. So I'd say that counts toward being in the best shape mentally as well.
Wedding Planner StatusIn terms of becoming a wedding planner, well, I got close.
This website was created with the intention to serve two purposes: offer wedding planning services, and provide a creative outlet for my musings about life. While I've been creating blog content and managing website details, I haven't focused on the wedding planning aspect as much. Months ago I worked with my first client on addressing her wedding invitations, but since then I haven't worked with any brides (if that isn't full disclosure, I don't know what is).To be honest, I haven't been as ambitious about putting myself out there and promoting my passion and skill set. This is something I want to work on over the next year - really going for it.However, I think my current job totally counts towards achieving wedding planner status in the form of event planning in general. Last September, I finally got my title of Event Coordinator that I'd been working so hard for.Although I've had a number of event planning jobs in the past, I've learned so much in this hands-on position. I'm really thankful that this job came along, as it's helped me realize that I still had and have a lot to learn. All the events I've planned over the past year have provided me with additional knowledge and experience necessary for being a successful wedding planner in the future.Like I said, I won't carry on for too long in this post. However, I hope this serves as a good reminder for me, as I look back over the next few years to see how far I've come. I also hope it encourages you to take a look at just how much you've accomplished, even when it doesn't feel like it sometimes.If it's your birthday month too, happy birthday!! xx,Sara