2024 – what lies ahead?

Honestly, I cannot believe its February already, how did that happen? But at the same time, January felt never-ending, even with the first two weeks in USA. That last half of the month dragged like I don’t know what… but here I sit on Feb 3rd, thinking how are we in February. And one month down of 2024 – the year I turn 40 (again, how?!)…

I am excited for 2024, and also terrified at the same time. I am excited because these last couple of years have been immensely powerful and changing years for me, I had a hysterectomy and ovary removal to help ease the medical conditions that were ruling my life and making things very, very difficult. And it was lifechanging, I honestly have never felt better, or felt like I have a life where I can just get up and go and climb a mountain, or spend days and days walking miles and miles around Disney world, without really a care (well, apart from my foot hurting from an injury), but you know, it wasn’t my usual pains and issues putting a dampener on it and needing a whole day in bed just because I did something the day before. It is incredible the change it has made, and yes, I am now in full on menopause, and that is a navigation, but I swear it hasn’t been how I expected it. Its actually all been really positive, but I think that’s because I have not let stress and worry about it get to me, I have accepted what is happening to my body and got the help I needed from my consultant, who I see again soon. Its been amazing, I honestly feel so happy within myself, and yes, there are things I want to change, but I am not going to follow a fad, or over do it to try and get there, I am focusing on my mind above all else, and the rest falls into place. As someone who has battled with depression and anxiety for so much of my life, it feels a relief to be in a place of calm and rest. It isn’t like it all the time, but the good days far outweigh the bad now.

2024 is a difficult year when it comes to my relationship, as my partner is away for work for most of it, and with no contact for a fair while, which is hard. Anyone who has been in a emotionally abusive relationship will know how silence is used as a punishment and it is a battle with my brain sometimes when having periods of zero contact to not feel that fear and anxiety take over, fortunately its only been for 6/7 weeks so far that I have had as the longest spell without contact, but soon it will be months and months, and I just don’t know how I will help my brain to calm the panic. So, if you have any tools or thoughts to help – I am here for that! The one thing I know and will keep telling myself, is that he loves me and we are happy and there is no need to fear. But, its easier said then done on days when its been hard and all I want is to discuss it with him. But, I will manage, I will probably find joy in writing, and painting, and being creative.

Which leads me to the other thing I am so excited for this year, growing my business. I trained as a nail tech last year, and have thoroughly enjoyed the creativity it produces. I am looking to join a salon to help myself grow my skills and client base. I want to take my business Ruby Twist, to the next level. I have press-ons selling on Etsy and I want to do so many more creative ideas with my brand once I have things underway and in a good place. Never did I think that I would be here managing that and finding pure joy in work. I also have a great part time job alongside, I love the job I have. It has been a massive boost to see the difference my input has already made in the last couple of months since joining them. And I know it will definitely keep me busy.

I turn 40 in June, which is another exciting change. Do I feel like I thought I would at almost 40? Definitely not. Is life how I imagined it years ago? Also, no. But, it is so much more incredible than I ever imagined. At 30, I was miserable, in an abusive relationship, feeling a mere speckle of the person I am now, life has changed me so much and I genuinely feel like I am in the best years now. I have so much happiness and love in my life, and passion, passion is so so important to me. And I have an abundance of it – in all aspects of my life.

I chose JOY as my word of 2024, and that’s what I want to make sure I focus on, whatever brings me joy. Because life is too short and this year is going to be hard enough without forcing myself to do things that don’t align and make me feel joy.

So, if its not a hell yes, its definitely a f**k no… and that will lead me along my path of joy.

Did you set any mantras or words for 2024? What are there? Share with me.

And if you have any advice for helping over the no contact times with my partner – its much appreciated.

Have a wonderful weekend

xoxo