Full transparency: I was miserable and very unhappy when this year began.
I was disappointed with a handful of things. Not being where I wanted to be personally, professionally, and creatively. Not seeing growth or reaping the fruits and benefits in areas where I’ve worked hard, was patient, faithful, and committed, for years, while watching other people move forward in some of the same areas I’ve anticipated moving forward in as well. There was even a point when I spiritually shut down and didn’t care how anything turned out anymore because I got tired of working, waiting, and praying for progression and not seeing it. I was doing everything I could to get where I wanted to go and seemingly getting nowhere. I’m a tenacious person, so I typically don’t give up easily, but during different times this year, I wrestled with discouragement and frustration when things weren’t working out, while at the same time, battling silent storms that came in the form of petty workplace challenges, private and public insecurities and failures, challenges with different family members and friends, and more, however, as I write this and reflect on the year in its entirety, I can still say that I’m blessed.
About four months into the year, some shifts started to take place that would later show me that God was still at work in my life even in the midst of moments that felt discouraging and disappointing. I was also reminded that even though I had challenges, there were always others who were going through much worse compared to what I was dealing with. This year had its rough moments, but it’s had its rewarding moments too. Romans 8:28 reads, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” I transitioned into a different role at work, went after new writing opportunities, contributed to platforms I follow and enjoy, networked and positioned myself to meet new people, professional acquaintances, and mentors through different networking opportunities, and continued to invest in myself in new and exciting ways.
I noticed good change, growth, and progression. If you're reading this right now, I hope you're aware of how blessed you are too. Even in those moments when things feel frustrating. Even when you don't get what you want or were hoping for. Even when you've been overlooked, felt forgotten, delayed, or denied. You are still blessed in other areas of your life. Pay close attention and be mindful not to overlook those areas. I hope that as 2020 approaches, it will be a year of breakthrough for you and that you will continue to press forward and be clear, focused, and persistent about what you want to do, where you want to go, and who you want to be. You've got this.