2017 Reflections and goals for 2018

I can't say enough about how fast this year has gone by.  2017 has truly had its ups and downs.  However, I am thankful for all of it.  As a family and life in general, we've had the unexpected to arise. We've had cancer to affect our family.  It's never that you don't believe it can happen, it's just that it happened and there's absolutely nothing you can do, but be there for your loved one and pray that the cancer leaves their body.  In our case there was a happy ending and my family member is now in remission. My prayer now is that the cancer doesn't return. 

I wasn't expecting to have to take a break from YouTube, but it happened.  I believe it was a blessing in disguise because I've been able to evaluate what direction I want to take with it and it's been a refreshing time.  I've very excited for my future with YouTube.  I've been able to develop my brand through Instagram and learning from my favorite blogger, Marianna Hewitt.  If you don't already know, she started a new Instagram page called "Blog With Me" this year to help anyone who wants to be a blogger and grow their Instagram page. Marianna answers a lot of questions and gives such wise advice. So visit her page and I'm sure that you'll find information you didn't know you needed. 

I appreciate all of the brands I've tried and learned about this year and I'm happy to have this blogging platform to share it on, as well as Instagram.  What I am most thrilled about this year is how much I've grown and come out of my social media shell.  Being vulnerable does help to get you out of your comfort zone and it is something I'd recommend to anyone who wants to brand themselves in social media.  You have to allow yourself to be a little vulnerable.  Step out and try something new, whether it's food related, traveling to new location or a new form of fashion (ie. trying a color/pattern you're not use to wearing).  Obviously, this is all within reason; don't break the bank, save for the things you can't afford. You know, use your own discretion.

My main goal in 2018 is to do better than I did in 2017.  I want to continue meeting my goals, self-evaluate often, grow my brand and help others along the way. I would love to travel to places I've never been and not just read about the brands, but actually go and meet the owners ( the heart of the brand). If others can do what they do well, then why can't you and I? All it takes is hard work, dedication and determination. I want to remember to take time for fun and enjoy the life around me.  It's so easy, in the midst of working hard, to forget to enjoy things, take a break and let go of the serious for a little while.  When it's time to hit the grind again, you're ready and refreshed.  There are several bloggers I'd love to collaborate with and will communicate that with them.  There are brands I'd love to work with as well and will be reaching out to them.

There are more brands I want to try and several repurchase items I don't want to live without.  I will be sharing those things with you and what works for me in detail. I want to branch out of my comfort zone a bit more in 2018 and continue to push past fears.
Below are the important things I'm encouraging myself to do and share with you.  When it comes down to it life is way to short, so enjoy it.

Thank you so much for visiting me here!  I've appreciated each of you this year.  Merry Christmas and a blessed New to you and yours!

XOXO,

Nae