✨ Happy New Year ✨

When the New Year of a much anticipated year falls on a Venus Day, for me that sets the tone for that year.

When I first thought of this Journal, my aim was to share with you anything and everything that brought me nourishment, inspiration, and healing. One of the most important takeaways from 2020...self-care is non-negotiable. That has been proven to me time and time again when I slacked a bit or got carried away with “the hustle”. 

I free-wrote my reflections on the year - this practice was inspired by the latest Archewell podcast episode, where Meghan and Harry invited guests to share their thoughts and takeaways from 2020. I found myself agreeing with Brene Brown who said: “We are our best selves or our worst selves when we are in fear. Never forget it is a choice.” which resonated with me a lot as this quote is something I shared with my close friends and loved ones.

I also found Deepak Chopra’s view on love and action to be very true; considering all the socio-political events we've experienced thus far, this is the type of attitude to have for this year and beyond: “Love without action is irrelevant, Action without love is meaningless”.

And lastly, I couldn’t agree more with Tyler Perry when he shared his wish to see more smiles in 2021 and to have the opportunity be able to embrace those we love.

So here below are a distillation of my takeaways, which I have converted into realistic and sustainable action points:

1- Allow myself to rest, reflect and recharge without feeling guilt. I would also add nourishment.

2- To practice emotional openness and vulnerability without feeling shame.

3- To set healthy boundaries to protect the above two points.

What have you learned from last year? And without the pressure of 'New Year resolutions', how do you see yourself applying what you learned? Share them with me on our socials 💕

Till next time, 

W xx

January 01, 2021 — Wasma Mansour