Year 31.  Yikes!  I’m officially IN my thirties. And guess what…it’s not as scary as I thought it would be. In fact, I’m looking forward to what this decade has in store for me. While the obvious stressors will most definitely be present I’m sure, my hope is that the next 9 years are filled with lots of love and simple beautiful moments.

Beautiful pre-birthday view!

I shared my thoughts on turning 30 last year, and after rereading that post several times, I thought I’d follow up on what I said and share more about my thoughts on year 31.

Last year, I talked about wanting to take more ownership for the way things turn out in my life but not letting my need for control be the driving force. This is still very much true. In the last year, I’ve continued to learn that there are going to be situations and moments in life where your entire world is turned upside down and there’s nothing you can do about it. And even though that scares me (A. LOT.), I’ve come to realize that I do have a choice. How I choose to respond to the curveballs life throws my way is up to me and me only.

I also mentioned wanting to be more authentic – with others and myself. This is something I work on and think about on a daily basis. And with every passing year, I’ve come to realize something about myself. I love being around people who I can be myself with and vice versa (or at least those trying their best). I know this sounds obvious, but it’s much easier said than done. And just for the record, I’ve been working on my people pleasing ways and am continuing to improve on that front!

More beautiful views from my birthday eve walk!

Year 31

Since the New Year, I’ve been thinking about the idea of connection. Let’s face it, no matter how you slice it, we need other people to thrive in this world. Connection, in my opinion, is not only a basic human need but also a want.

BOLD STATEMENT –> It’s my belief that every single one of us on this Earth just want to feel connected to other beings. It’s the backbone to our existence.

What boggles my mind is why does it then seem like we’re more disconnected than ever. Putting the more global tragedies aside (because they are honestly beyond me), why does it feel like we are losing our way when it comes to personal connections. Why are we connecting more with our phones than with other humans (guilty!)? Why do we hide behind the word ‘busy’ instead of make time for those who are important to us? Why do we not smile at strangers on the street/elevator/etc.? Why do we make assumptions about what’s happening in someone’s life instead of reaching out to them? Why don’t we talk about the not so good stuff happening in our lives?  And the list could go on and on and on.

Honestly, I don’t care about the answers to these questions because no answer is good enough. Period.

The bottom line is we need to connect more. Our happiness, fulfillment, whatever you want to call it depends on it.

So in year 31, I’m making connection a focus (and yes, 2015 is also still the year of calm). Anyone and everyone who knows me should be on alert. Expect emails, phone calls, texts, snail mail, maybe even personal visits (if you’re lucky!).  Even complete strangers will feel more connected to me – smiles and hellos for everyone!

With that, I wish you all a very happy Friday. And don’t forget to eat some chocolate cake today!