Thankful Thursday: On Turning 26

In two days, I’ll be turning twentySEX – yes, I’m adhering to that vernacular to highlight the fact that I am still young as ever. This time last year, I promised myself I would stop making excuses, and I think I did a pretty good job at that- I got to travel the world, attend my favorite music festival, finally step into my career, and gain some amazing friends. It wasn’t always beautiful, but it was a year to remember.

A city like San Francisco moves like the tides (which I know a thing or two about as I prepare for the Alcatraz race). It is constantly changing, and one thing I have learned – and am still learning – is that it is never going to be perfect. That said, it is still a thriving beast of opportunity. By being loyal to myself and hustling (see this shirt for inspiration), my goals for the next year are to shape my path and continue to find my purpose. Even if I can’t predict the future, I can definitely influence its direction with the following:

• Swim blind: Preparing for the unexpected, whether that means a chance encounter on the bus or quite literally swimming without any underwater vision from Alcatraz to SF (one month to go!). I’ve always tended to become frazzled when things are out of my control. This year, I want to reel it back in and realize that there will always be aspects of life I can’t foresee, but having an open mind and willingness to adapt will help ride the wave.
• Reach out: Happiness is so much more real when shared, and I’ve got to experience that exponentially more in these past 7 months. I’m super excited to continue to move forward with a smart, caring teammate to push me. In times of uncertainty, it’s okay to ask for help, and I know (and should remember) that I have a great support system to guide me.
• Be the bandana in a group of hats: I can’t go out of style if the style is mine alone 🙂

26, lezgo!