I have spent the last couple of days reflecting over 2022. The one word that summarizes this year for me is GROWTH. I did a lot of growing and learning this year. 

I had to grow as a leader. Being a principal is the most difficult, but most rewarding job I have ever had. Every day I am faced with many problems and so many people look to me for the solutions. It can be a lot of pressure at times. I have grown in knowing that I do not always have to have the answer, I can ask others for help, and. it’s okay to not have it all together. I have grown to learn that leadership is not straight and narrow path. It is a path that is curvy with many bumps in the road. I have also grown in learning boundaries as a leader and that self-care is important. 

I have grown in my relationships. I have learned when it is time to let certain people go and when to embrace others. I have learned the true power of forgiveness. I have learned that I am not the victim and must take responsibility for the choices I have made in my relationships. I have learned that it’s okay to not always be the strong friend, but to be vulnerable and to share my hurts with others. 

I have grown in my mindset. I have learned to be more mindful of my choices. I have learned that I do not have to respond in the moment. I have learned to be more mindful of impulsive decisions. I have learned to be mindful of what I am focusing my thoughts on. I have learned to be mindful of my time and the power of saying no.

I have grown to love myself even more. I struggle with loving my physical body. I am learning that my body is beautiful and to accept that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. This have been a long journey of learning to love myself, but I am slowly getting there.

Lastly, I have grown in the area of acceptance. Comparison can be hard at times, but I am peace knowing that I am where I need to be. 

As I go into 2023, I want to keep growing and being who God called me to be. 

The focus for the new will be SURRENDER. I want to trust God completely knowing that His plans for my life are good and He is in control. I want to walk in peace and focus what God is doing in my life in the present and now worry about the future for I know the plans He has for me will work out for my good. 

May you continue to shine your light into the new year! 

Nadia