Encouraging Words: “Your Past is a Learning Tool”

There are a lot of changes getting ready to take place in my life, and as exciting as it all is it’s also a little scary. Change makes me reflective, so I’ve been spending more time lately thinking about my life. Generally, I’ve been thinking about the goals that I’ve set for myself (personally and professionally), and the relationships I have with people.Instead of harping on the negative or what I perceive to be as “mistakes” in my past, I’m choosing to appreciate them as life lessons. I’m looking at how I can change my thoughts, my words, and my actions, so that history doesn’t repeat itself. It’s much more helpful to view your past in this way. You’re not dwelling on the negative or bothered by it, you’re just learning and growing from it.Here are some lessons I’ve learned from my past:Put yourself out there (be a bit more extroverted). While it seems scary, I think it’s doable. It just involves sharing a little bit more of yourself (your sense of humor, your smile, your interests) with the world. Introverts are incredible people (and I speak as one), but we tend to be more guarded, and as a result I think we can miss out on some amazing opportunities.

Speak your truth (your morals, beliefs, values, etc). Whatever your truth is, speak it and own it. In a society obsessed with followers, likes, and retweets, we sometimes stop speaking our truth because it’s not popular opinion. We feel like we have to fit into a box or use a specific formula to be accepted. Well, who cares?! Speak your truth because someone out there is going to be able to relate to it, and could probably benefit from it. Also, it’s very powerful when you can stand up and say this is who I am and make no apologies for it.

Have more faith in yourself. Whether it’s translating your passion for baking into a dessert shop, becoming a medical doctor, or designing a clothing line, believe that these aren’t just pipe dreams, but they are goals that through hard work and determination can actually manifest.

Use your past as a learning tool. I hope you all have a fabulous week!