What did you do in 2013?
You had 365 days to explore, travel, learn and grow.
Think about what you REALLY did. What did you love and hate?
What do you regret?
Did you change? How?
In 2013 I spent a lot of time, selfishly, on myself. In 2012 I had a kid, so that really took over all my attention and energy.
2013 was a year for reconnecting and finding what really matters to me, as a mom, creator and as Andrea.
Now, moving into 2014 I’m still struggling with busyness and prioritizing, so I’ve decided my word of the year will be: Simplicity.
Simple eating, simple living, simple activities, simple work (less Facebook!) simple environments.
I have a feeling I’m going to be organizing a TON on 2014!
A Look Back Before Moving Onwards and Upwards
In 2013:
I reduced… my carb intake at dinnertime.
I stopped…feeling guilty or bad about doing something just for me.
I lost…my baby weight! Yeay! When I was pregnant I gained close to 40 lbs. Bye-bye belly.
I started…running! The day after I lost my job I went to the gym and for the first time felt invigorated. I was angry, so I ran. I’m up to 2/3 miles each time and hope to make it to a 5K.
I created…my first digital product. It’s a printable Calendar + Guide , that’s a workbook, journal and inspiration for passionate women who’s ready to make things happen in 2014. Check it out at www.mybestyearyet.co
I loved…watching my kiddo learn everyday. It is so awesome to see him interact with the world.
I was embarrassed I… lost my job. Right after it happened, I felt like a phony and impostor in my field. I’m still getting working through those feelings.
I was frustrated by… the fact that it takes SO MUCH TIME to be a mom, run a house and just generally make sure our home isn’t a total disaster. I get frustrated that my Andrea time is tough to come by some days.
I felt crazy when… I had to juggle being a career woman, entrepreneur, non-profit board member, volunteer, partner AND mom. I am not superhuman and can’t do it all. 2014 will be more focused. Now I’m grateful to not have the stress of my full-time job. When I do go back to the workplace I will make sure my work stops at a reasonable hour. Meaning I won’t do work at home or on the weekend- period.
I regret… spending so much time doing work when I was at home. See above.
I needed more time for.. reading and unplugging from the internet. See intentions for 2014.
I missed… DT’s black tie gala. Each year his family hosts a Holiday dinner and I missed it. Financially it wasn’t a good idea to make the trip but I missed getting my hair and nails done. Don’t even get me started on the amazing dress I would have worn.
I went… to Buffalo, Portland, NYC, Baltimore, Cabo san Lucas, Port Aransas, TX.
I relaxed when… I went to the beach- especially my solo trip to Mexico in November! It was 4 days of total internet-free bliss.
I would use a magic wand to change… my dad’s attitude about his divorce. It’s so much better now, but was very sad and depressing for a while. He could use some magic in his life.
I felt gratitude when… I partnered with another female entrepreneur for the first time to create My Best Year Yet Calendar+ Guide.
I was fulfilled by… sewing and creating baby and toddler goodies for stylish Mama’s. I love to sew. I’m such a dork!
Time flew when… I was spending time outside with my little man. We love to explore in Austin.
I splurged when… I bought Birthday and Christmas presents. It’s a bad habit of mine! I always try to outdo myself year after year.
I want to repeat… every summer day spent at the pool and exploring Austin parks.
I should have… called my friends more or sent surprise cards more often. Or called my mom and dad.
I don’t know why I… lost my job, still to this day I am hurt and disappointed in my former employer. I love the people I worked with and my career. What happened?
I want a ‘do-over’ with… dates with The One. We tried so many times to get some alone time and it never really worked out. Having a kiddo throws so many bumps into the road- you know?
I felt most alive when… I would finish a run or good workout.
The best gift I received was… time spent with my son before he starts school in January. I had 3 months of playtime, art and craft time and cooking. It was the best.
Physically, the biggest difference since last December is… I am back to pre-baby shape and size! Plus, my hair is crazy long and super blond these days. I love it.
Psychologically, the biggest difference since last December is… I’m not worried about conquering the world of Marketing. I just want to conquer the world as the most authentic version of me.
Emotionally, the biggest difference since last December is… I don’t feel as much pressure to “keep going” and keep pushing like I did last year this time.
Environmentally, the biggest difference since last December is… My family and I are settled into a wonderful home in a great neighborhood and will be for at least one more year. Phew! No more moving!
Socially, the biggest difference since last December is… I feel more connected to the Austin community than ever. Leadership Austin has instilled in me an amazing pride for this city. I don’t see us leaving Austin anytime soon because now I realize its up to us, as young leaders, to continue building Austin.
My biggest ‘win’ was… speaking at the Spredfast Summit and seeing my name on the same program as Arianna Huffington, even though I lost my job the week before.
I want more… time with Daniel as a couple.
The one thing I want to do again but better is…attend networking events that make sense. I usually just attend anything but my time is valuable!
The best thing I did for someone else was… jump on a plane an visit my best friend after she had her baby. It was awesome to her grow her little family.
The best thing someone did for me was… tell me, “It’s OK if you don’t want to get a new job right away. Take the time to find something you love.”
The best thing I did for myself was… participate in Leadership Austin Emerge!
The one thing I learned this year is… to say no to certain people and projects in order to keep my life in balance. This will always be a struggle for me I feel.
I am most grateful for…my former employer. Ironically enough. They were very understanding about my role as working mom (which was so important to me) and I learned so much about an industry that was totally new to me. Even though I’m not affiliated with them anymore, I am very thankful for the opportunity.
I look forward to 2013 being different by… finding work that means something to me. I want to see my impact with my own eyes. Be that as maker, marketer or Mama.
More Resources For 2013 Reflection
- Chris Guillebeau: How do Conduct Your Own Year in Review
- Get Busy Living: Year in Review PDF Worksheet
- Year in Review Link Up Party for Bloggers
The Uncaged Life: Yearly Review Template (Including intentions for 2014)
Next week after I sit down and create my goals for 2014 I’ll share them here. I’m going to focus on intentions this year, instead of goals and I hope you’ll join me.
