What To Do After The Toughest Year Of Your Life

I have always been a visual person. I have a very vivid imagination but there are areas I falter in. That is what drew me to art. Making something with my own set of hands has a whole new sense of accomplishment. One of the best forms of therapy I was given was making collages. I have been doing dream and vision boards since elementary school. On that note, after the toughest year of my life it is no surprise that I break out a classic form of therapy and enlightenment.

"Often it's the deepest pain which empowers you to grow into your highest self" - Karen Salmansohn

I have tried over the years to be the best sister I can be. That can be a challenge when you have nine siblings ranging from 18 years younger and 5 years older than you. Going into this new exciting year instead of focusing on being the best sister (sorry everyone), I have decided to set the bar for being the best aunt. Here is my list of how I think I can achieve that.

One on one time - everyone is very busy so this might be the trickiest one.

Special trips - this could mean going to the park, on a hike, or to the beach.

Engage in their interests - I would most definitely need to keep a notebook but I want to make sure I know what they like and are passionate about.

Holiday cards - I want to celebrate them on a daily basis but I also want to make sure that during the holidays, which ever one it might be, they have a small token of my artistic expression.

Savings. Something I have never had. I have always lived paycheck to paycheck. I did get better at this in 2020 but with the pandemic, any amount of savings I did have was lost. So after calling off my wedding, moving 1000 miles, searching for a better job, and still holding on to my passions - I made a decision. I need to see more of the world. I wanted to live in this world I was watching from my window and on my screen. I found the perfect way to do this, by becoming a full time RVer. Now it isn't just something you can up and do. A lot of research is involved and I have done most of it. The biggest obstacle - capital. Now I do not want to buy a brand new one off the lot, although I have though about financing one for the warranty, so making sure I am saving as much money as I can to purchase my rolling home.

I have a lot of emotional growth to do in 2021. I completed a hard step in 2020, I admitted that not only was there a problem but that the problem was me. So outside of anything that cost any money or involves other people, I am going to be a better me. I have a few ideas on how to make sure that happens.

Self care - this is not only a mentally healthy habit but a physical one too. I recommend it to everyone, not just those as broken as myself

Lifestyle changes - that whole "my body is my temple" thing needs to be taken more seriously for me. I did make progress in 2020, but 2021 is going to be a lot of work. I am going to be more conscious of not only what I put into my body, but what I surround myself with too. Toxic vibes can do just as much damage as a Big Mac.

Treat yo self - I have to be careful because I am trying to save but there are smaller things I can do to treat myself. Going to dollar tree and getting spa supplies, going to a thrift store or Goodwill to purchase a new outfit or pair of shoes, or ordering delivery with coupon codes.

I am sure everyone wishes they could take their passion and turn it into riches. I have found many forms of art that I am passionate about. For this coming year, my goal is to make money off of what makes me the happiest. Now, in the past I have been commissioned to make art but with my goal I would like to make money off of something that is one hundred percent original. This is going to happen overnight but I have thought of a few things to do to help myself along. I need to take more time, practice more, and explore new techniques. These things don't just speak to my art though, but to all the things I want to do in 2021. This year is a time for healing, growth, and empowerment. It will be a journey, one I am very excited for.