This past year I failed a lot. I let those failures get to me, and I lost all of my confidence. My therapist said the last week of the year should be a time for goal setting. I have set goals in the past with the frame of mind that I cannot consider them a failure if I don’t accomplish them. I know this may seem like a non-starter, but I react horribly to my failure. I let my feelings build until I am a depressed puddle of tears.

However, I am working on trying to look at what I’ve learned from a situation. I’ve learned I need to not freak out about everything I can’t do on my own. I will survive, and if something happens, I’ll be fine. Even if it hurts momentarily, the pain will go away.

I have also learned that you have to be your cheerleader. Do you want to write a novel? Write a little every day, and don’t tell anyone if you don’t feel comfortable. Do you want to get in better shape? Start with small weights or a challenge on the internet.

Don’t forget to celebrate your wins, even if it seems tiny. I have been watching Hallmark Christmas movies for two months. My roommate and I quote our favorites often. It’s not a huge accomplishment, but it makes us happy. The small wins will get bigger, and you’ll be happier because you aren’t so hard on yourself.

This year I’m going to be better about rolling with the punches and improving myself. I’m giving myself the chance to be a better person. The thing I’m learning is that just because you fail doesn’t mean you deserve to beat yourself up. It’s time to accept yourself and permit yourself to still find joy in the small things.

Featured photo by johnhain courtesy of Pixabay