We're Back Again and Better; Ladies of Hive Contest #166

Happy New Year

It feels so warm and sweet to be back all charged up for 2024. I know we are going to have another blast this revolution. As we go around the sun again, I wish you nothing but joy and harmony.

The questions for this week by @ahama.merit go together for me in synchrony. Great initiative Merit. Big up.

What is the one lesson or knowledge you learned this year that benefitted you as a lady?

I've learned some wholesome life lessons in 2023 and I'm grateful I get to imbibe them into my daily life now. One of those lessons is that I’ve learned that I need to be more empathetic towards others. I believe that as a lady, such an attribute is a good fit.

I've learned to stop, take a moment, and place myself in the position of the other person. It could be that you are having conflicting ideas, opinions, or even an argument. Sometimes we are so into our feelings when it comes to our relationship with others. We fail to see that they could be hurting too and their feelings matter just as ours. We quickly put up a defense and only our views seem valid. Now, when in the slightest disagreement with others, I tend to shift my mindset and ask myself, “If I were this person, how would I want to be treated?” that simple question resets my thinking and brings out the empath in me. I've found that when both parties take responsibility, things become more amicable rather than blaming one person for the squabble. It takes two to tango.

I believe this approach doesn't only help me, it makes the world a better place. If everyone out there could have more empathy, understanding would thrive and conflict resolution would be as simple as a walk in the park.

I learned to put this simple act into practice and it helped me a great deal. When I listen, it turns out that sometimes I'm not even as mad as I thought and other times, it is just a huge misunderstanding. For a person who hates confrontations and easily gets nervous, this has helped to keep me more at ease, and my relationships have fostered.

What would you do differently or start doing Is it for yourself next year?

I always have this thought in my head where I like to consider myself as “low maintenance.” I do not always strive for the biggest and shinier stuff in life. I prefer to fill my soul with the simpler things of life. As such, what I've started to do for myself differently is simple. I'm creating a little haven and comfort in myself. I'm the abode I can call home. I'm my comfort zone.

This year, what I've started doing for myself is being kinder and gentler. I am listening to my heart more. I am picking up the cues my body gives me. I want to be more in tune with body spirit and soul. I am doing this exercise where I remind myself every morning how great I am. I went out on the New Year and I got most of the things I wanted for myself. I've started reading books again. I'm taking those long walks, I'm eating healthy too. And oh, I got these amazing skin care products. I'm telling you, this is the year my skin is going to pop. Hehehe! The skin would shine so bright. You'll see me coming because my shine would be blinding. I'm excited already ladies.