Oh how the time flies! In full disclosure, 2019 was not the easiest year. Quite frankly it might have been one of my roughest years yet… We are over halfway through January and I have found myself in a time of life transition…a much required season of change. Throughout the back half of last year, I was stuck in a work situation that was draining the life out of me. Typically known as a fairly outgoing, happy and bright person; I had become distant and cast-down by ill treatment from my co-workers. All I could think about from June through December was how I couldn’t wait for my next project, the next phase, and the next chapter of my life to start.

If you feel like this reflects your current situation or have at some point resonated with this sentiment, then you know that this is no way to live. Life is hard, and there will always be weeks, months and years that are filled with trials. However, I want to let you know that things can and will get better, so don’t give up! Even during the frustrations I was experiencing 10-12 hours a day / 5 days a week (sometimes more!), I found that the best days were the ones where I entered into them with a positive attitude and resilient mindset. If someone wanted to blame me for their problems, talk down to me, or make me feel like an outcast…that was their problem, not mine. One piece of advice that I often heard growing up in my house was to “let it roll off your back like water”. This is WAY easier said than done, but with practice it is an easier mindset to implement than you might think.

While I’m in a better work dynamic now, I don’t want to forget what I learned about myself and others in that 8 month long season. Each phase of life offers us something to learn and grow from. It’s never a waste, when we learn and apply the hardships we’ve gone through. Some words of encouragement / advice that I have for you from my personal experience:

Start the day telling yourself a few things you are great at / areas you’ve grown in
If you are experiencing a hard time (at work or personally), find someone to talk to. A mentor might be able to help you navigate the situation, and a peer / friend will at least have a kind ear to listen
Toxic environments are simply not healthy. So if you need to find a way out make sure that you prioritize your well-being
Try to do one thing a day that makes you happy! Live for today, not in hope for tomorrow
Cut off toxic relationships (platonic and romantic) from your life
End each day by reminding yourself about at least one thing that went well
You are not alone (even when it feels like it); find a friend or family member to open up to. Trust me, they’ll be glad you did

As much as I hope that this advice will help at least one of you out there, I also want you to know that I’m speak to myself too. I’ve by no means mastered how to navigate difficult situations, but hope to continue getting better over time. Tough seasons are bound to come, but don’t loose sight of the strong and amazing person you are! When difficulties arise in different areas of life, remember all of the good times that came before and the wonderful & happy memories to come. Be courageous, bold, and relentless. Keep your head held high and take each day in stride.

My best wishes to each and everyone of you in 2020. Let’s make this year - in the valleys and on the summits - one to look back at with pride!

All the best, Emi ♡

A Word of Encouragement