It’s hard to believe that today marks the first day of a new decade. A new decade that I’m literally going to grab by the balls while making everything that I want to happen, happen. I’ve already begun starting to feel the energy of the new year weeks prior to today. I don’t know whats happening in the universe lately, but I am feeling so great about all of the changes that are going to happen for me in the next few months. And what do I have planned for the next few months? Well, a lot. To start,…

No more vaping! It’s been over a week since I’ve vaped my last bit of Red’s Apple Juice. I feel great, and I’m no longer craving that little rush that I used to get. I thought it would be hard when I’m driving on the road, or when I’m at home playing a video game or watching a movie, but I think dropping my dosage of 3mg of Nicotine a few months ago, down to 0mg has really been my saving grace. I honestly didn’t think it would be this easy, so much easier than putting down the bad habit of smoking cigarettes. I’m so proud of myself, and thats not an affirmation that I usually speak about myself!

Last year I was in a relationship and I truly let myself go with my diet and unhealthy eating habits. It’s what they call “happiness pounds” right? Yeah, whatever… Anyway, I’m so happy that I’ve been really strict about my diet and making the biggest effort of being at the gym on a daily basis. As cliche as it is but, no pain no gain. I’m down almost five pounds in 3 weeks, and I am starting to feel so much better about myself. I think the hardest part about getting healthy again were my cravings right after work! But, with some thoughtful meal planning and learning how to correctly snack throughout the day I haven’t had the craving to stop at Del Taco on the way home from work in over two weeks. 🙂

It’s been awhile since I’ve done anything by myself, and I truly forgot how fun it is to do my own thing. I am my own best friend, and really only have myself at the end of the day. It’s so important for me to remember that this year, and moving forward.

For 2020 and the next decade ahead, I have a few key points that I am giving my all in.

• #1 It’s okay to be selfish.

For the entirety of my life, I truly have always put others before me. That is stopping as of today, January 1st, 2020. I’m still going to be there, offer assistance when needed, and be a friend to anyone, but it’s important for me to take time for myself and not give myself so easily to just anyone. Time and energy is something I value deeply, and I can’t offer that to just anyone anymore. I’m not going to put myself into situations that I no longer find happiness in, nor will I engage with others that do not share the same values, principles, or have my best interests in mind anymore. My circle is getting a little smaller, but I’m totally okay with that. I have no hard feelings for anyone that I am cutting off this year, it’s just time, and that is just a part of life…

• #2 Create, create and CREATE.

I can’t express how much joy I get out of creating. It’s truly the best kind of therapy for me. Photography has been my outlet for the last few years, and I am so happy for all of the knowledge that I’ve learned throughout the years, and so thankful for others to trust in me and my vision. I want to elevate my craft this year, and create totally new things and really push myself with photography. I just spent thousands on new gear and I have been utilizing my time everyday to make the most out of it. I aspire to bring all of my creativity outlets to the forefront this year. I’ve got some really interesting ideas planned that I cannot wait to share.

• #3 I don’t need to say much about going back to school, but a few years ago I enrolled and took a few classes. This year I’m getting even more serious about it, and I’m looking forward to going back again this year.

• #4 The great wall of Jay.

I’ve always been rather guarded and protective in regards to letting others in. I’m going to let that part of me down just a bit. I’ve learned so much about myself in the last year, and I’m truly in such a different mindset that I was in a few months ago. I’m ready to put myself out there. New friendships, new experiences, and as nervous as I think about dating again, I’m looking forward to meeting my new match.

2020 is going to be such a great year for not only myself, but I feel like for so many others too. It’s a new decade, and for some of us thats a chance for us to completely restart. I haven’t felt so energized in a very long time, but it’s my time now.

Sincerely,
Jay