I often see the phrase “living my best life” on social media. It’s one of those things that I always take with a grain of salt. After all, social media is most often not an accurate reflection of real life. Still, that phrase kept echoing in my head as 2018 came to a close and I started thinking about the new year ahead.

Last year was a good year for me in a lot of ways. In April, I received a promotion at work. This was huge for me because there were certain aspects of my old position that I really loved, but some things that I didn’t. My new position allows me to do more of those pieces I enjoy and I think it plays to my strengths and career goals. I also started in an accelerated master’s program and will have my degree by the end of 2019.

I traveled more in 2018 than I have previously. My new position includes quite a bit of travel, though it’s not exactly to exciting places. I’ve still been able, however, to make the most of those business trips by seeking out new adventures and meeting new people. I went to Gulf Shores with friends in August. I also took a trip to visit family in Nashville, which is one of my favorite destinations.

Orange Beach, AL

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller

Another big accomplishment was when I started working on a path to owning my own home in 2018, purchasing a tiny house shell. This has become a very long process, but I can’t complain. I knew when I started this journey that it would take time.

Overall, 2018 was a pretty good year. I was happy and enjoying my life. But was I living my best life? Definitely not.

“Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties.” – Helen Keller

In the shuffle of everything going on last year, I really lost sight of myself. I stopped taking care of the little things and stopped listening to my body. Instead, I focuses on forging ahead, no matter how exhausted I felt. I gained weight. I had more migraines than usual, likely from stress. I was tired all the time, and just generally felt overdone and unwell.

For 2019, I’m resolved to actually living my best life. For me, that doesn’t mean glitzy parties, expensive vacations, and lots of activities. Living my best life is about listening to my inner voice, taking care of myself, and knowing when enough is enough.

I hope you’ll follow along on my journey.