4 THINGS 2017 HAS TAUGHT ME (a year end reflection)

I was in college when i first realized the importance of reflection. I studied in a Catholic scholarship program school which helped by the government in educating the under privilege ladies and guided  by Opus Dei in Religion/spiritual being. I have learned the reflection in day to day basis, contemplating on the things you've done today, taking down notes on achievements, failures and sins committed (could be big or small), so that when confession day comes, you will be able to ask for forgiveness about what you've done and of course to correct what you've done wrong or improve yourself.

As a Filipino,we have this New year's resolution thing in the beginning of the year. I guess it's not just a tradition or what ever but i guess having it in your life will help you become a whole rounded person specially if you do it right and base it in reality. " The examined life is worth living" I believe. So, as this year ends, i would like to look back on my 2017 life events and look forward to what 2018 can bring me...

My 2017 has TAUGHT me to :

1. ORGANIZED 

Being organized is tough for me ever since because I'm a distracted person. I do whatever i feel like doing. But since I wanted to make use of my internet well, I've tried reading from different Christian and homemakers blog, This encouraged me to follow their tips and advises in becoming a better home maker, recognizing the important role of a woman for the benefit of your family and God's glory. From there i was able to make one step at a time in organizing.

• Planner - i started using a planner which includes 

1. Bill tracker (income,savings,expenses,bill dues)
2. Grocery list
3. Menu Planning (daily/weekly)
4. Cleaning lists
5. Things to do

2. SET GOALS/PRIORITIES

Just like organizing, goal setting is another challenge for me. I cant recognized what i really want in life. I want every little bit of everything and my plans keeps on changing. Staying focused is one of my weakness. Glad that it was my husband's strength. In this aspect,  his additional guidance has helped me.

3. SAVE AND MANAGE FINANCES

I can't say i am now successful in this aspect but i can say i have improved in a way. Actually, i am the spender and my husband is the keeper type of person. That is the best thing about marrying the opposite person as you are. I have learned saving some income in a bank, put up a little business that could help us earn extra income, and purchased only what is necessary. My husband's philosophy here is first things first. You have to recognized the difference between needs and wants and uses the this formula : Income - Savings = Expenses. I found it effective anyways.

4. FORGIVE.FORGET.MOVE ON.

I don't want to approach the coming year with a burden heart. Time to release the unnecessary emotional baggage of the past year. yeah, forgive and forget the people that may caused me irritations, harms and pains. My bitterness, career wise and try to focus on the blessings that me and my family received. Time to refresh my heart and leave everything to our fair and prudent judge God.

I am excited about the opportunities that a fresh New year would bring. The challenges and projects that needs to accomplish /complete, declutter physical, mental and spiritual aspects in life. Time is tickling and a few more hours to go before 2018 starts. 

Things I've Done as i kick off the new year with a fresh start:

• Paid Bills - House rental, Electricity, water, internet bills
• House keeping
• Declutter digital life: phone,photos,files,PC
• Give tokens/gifts to people i care about
• Cook food as we celebrate the first day 2018

Alright! 2018 Let's get it on!!! Happy New Year People :)