Every year I publish an article about what I learned and the time is here for me to share 7 of the most important things I learned in 2017.
I didn’t want to wait until the end of the month to publish this post because, with two weeks left in this month, I don’t think I’ll learn anything new; let’s get to it.
Important Things I Learned this Year
This year was a year like no other, and as I write this post, I feel many emotions bubbling up inside my body.
I learned:
- to stop labeling myself as a specific dieter
- not try different diets after getting sick
- to stop making spontaneous purchases for business purposes (usually, have buyer’s remorse).
- to walk alone, walking alone became more evident after the presidential election
- that being consistent pays big dividends
- more about people this year because I paid attention to actions and less to words
- to have patience.
Here’s what I will do going forward
- No more labels – I don’t fit in a box, so why even try. I’m more than what the names say I am.
- No more restrictive diets – I don’t handle dietary restrictions well, and I don’t recommend it.
- No more wasting money on products and services – When I make a quick purchase, I am always let down.
- No more wondering why people do what they do – I ‘m tired of going along to get along. Open communication is crucial in relationships.
- No more inconsistency – I see how being consistent in life makes a difference; I have to stick with the program.
- No more taking people at their words – I watched actions this year more than, and I learned everything I needed to know.
- No more impatience – My daughter blossomed and persevered to do things I never thought were possible. The patience muscle made lots of gains this year, for sure.
These are the most important things I learned in 2017.
What are some important things you learned this year? Do share.
Trinity says
I’ve learned and have come to grips with the fact that I have a few friends that I cherish. However, these friends do not necessarily cherish each other. On the occasions when we must all be in the company of one another, we co-exist. And, that’s okay.
I’ve come to grips with the reality that, in this life, friends have different functions.
1)Some friends are listeners – they don’t share that which is shared with them. And, that’s okay.
2) Some friends are problem solvers – they don’t think in terms of just listening to a problem. Before the problem is spoken, they already have a 3 step plan and resources available to solve the problem. And, that’s okay.
3)Some friends may never PHYSICALLY be there, but they are only a PRAYER away. And, spiritually, they got your back. And,that’s okay.
In summation, I’ve learned to be grateful for the few people that I consider friends. All of them have functions – kind of like the cell phone and the charger. The cell phone has its purpose. The charger has its purpose. One only performs without the other for a limited amount of time. But, when they come together, they are complete.
I’m so grateful that I have friends who do come through during times of need. No, we may not all hang out together as one big happy family. But, I believe that I’ve been blessed with a few people who have a purpose in my life and can successfully fill that purpose.
Thanks, Evelyn, for this post. I really needed to reflect upon upon this. Too often, I get disgruntled within myself when I see friends who all seem to get along taking extravagant vacations and enjoying a girls night out, etc. However, through reflection, I’m learning to be appreciative for the tribe of people who surround me.
God Bless you, and Happy New Year!
Evelyn Parham says
Hi Trinity!
I love how you describe how friends have different functions. It’s a pretty good way looking at things.
These are wise words, indeed! Thank you for sharing and chiming in! I needed to read this! 🙂
God bless you too and have a wonderful New Year!!
Beverly Mahone-Gibbs says
Evelyn,
I have learned that I am more passionate about young people and their communication success than I thought and that my gifts and talents are to be used for that purpose. I’ve learned there is still a lot of “fight” left in me despite my age. And my actions will always define my heart.
Evelyn Parham says
Hi, Beverly!
That’s great! Young people need someone like you who is passionate about their communicatioan success. I can see the passion in your videos too. 🙂
Thanks for stopping by and sharing, Beverly and I’m sorry for the late reply.
Carolyn says
I learned that…
1. I truly can do all things when I trust God without limits!
2. Saying “no” is a good thing!
3. Only surround yourself with people who truly love and care about you!
Evelyn Parham says
Hi, Ms. Carolyn!
Thank you for stopping by and sharing what you learned this year!
Have a great week!
Mitch Mitchell says
I learned I was a stronger person that I thought I was after moving Mom into the house with us. I’ll admit that my business has suffered but taking care of Mom became the most important thing I could possibly do. I’ve had to grow into it, since I’d never had to take care of anyone in my life before, but I’ve learned a lot and realized that stepping up to the plate to take care of someone personally is a lot like what I was teaching in leadership.
Evelyn Parham says
Hi, Mitch!
Your Mother is lucky to have a son like you.
Thanks for sharing what you learned and I appreciate you stopping by too!
Have a great week and stay warm!