THINGS I HAVE LEARNT IN 2014

I have been reading many wistful posts recently and it has got me reflecting on my year, and the things that I have learnt along the way. It don't try and keep it a secret that I have had a bit of a rough year, but I'm not going to go into it at great lengths on here, but it is when times are a bit more tough when you can truly learn new things about yourself. You have to take the bad times with the good.

Faerie Pools | Isle of Skye | Scotland

The first lesson that I learned this year was that it is okay to not be okay for awhile. As a person who is prone to perfectionism along the way I have non-intentionally learned to beat myself up a lot. So when I do feel low-spirited I have always kicked myself when I was already down. This year I have reflected on past behaviours and instead gave myself time to heal. It is definitely more beneficial to learn to be kind to yourself so you can pick yourself up again, there is no use in kicking yourself when you are already down. 

When times are a bit more tough you can identify your true friends. These are the people who are there for you no matter what, and help to make you feel good about yourself. I no longer waste time on people that bring along a negative energy as when it comes down to it, are they really your friends? Instead avoid the negativity as you are better off without it dragging you down, and spend time in good company. You'll find that good friends will bring more positivity your way and you'll both benefit from a give and take relationship. I send my love out to any of my good friends reading this post, you know who you are!

Tell yourself: I am good enough. These words were enough to tear up my eyes only a matter of months ago. Please don't waste your own time telling yourself that you are not good enough, or let other tell you that. Whether it is your personality, brain or looks. You are good enough. You can achieve anything you want to as long as you put your mind to it. Try again if first time around you don't succeed.  It is absolutely fine if you are imperfect, everybody is. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and that is okay. Once you realise that you are good enough just as you things will get easier. 

There's no shame in failing. The only shame is in not giving things your best shot - Robin Williams

This another life lesson that I took into account this year. As a perfectionist I have always feared failure, and all the bad feelings that arise with it. I would try and avoid it at all costs. On the other hand once you realise that there is no shame in failing, only in not trying, it sets you free. Well, a little, I still don't like the idea of failing but I'm working on giving myself a break sometimes, and that is what matters.

Finally, accept yourself as you can only be you. By comparing yourself to others you idealise their strong points and ignore your own. Maybe by accepting yourself, you can come to terms with your own faults and focus on just being the best version of you. I think it is only through self  acceptance that you can gain greater self-confidence.  I am still working on this lesson and will carry it on through 2015.

I hope you enjoyed reading my lessons this year, and wish you all the best for 2015.