Thoughts on My 24th Birthday

Blue Floral Birthday #OOTD- Monique McHugh

Blue Floral Birthday #OOTD- Monique McHugh

Blue Floral Birthday #OOTD- Monique McHugh

Blue Floral Birthday #OOTD- Monique McHugh

A birthday has the power to bring things into perspective every year. Tim and I sat with our close friends for dinner last week for my birthday. He asked me to share highlights of my year along with something I did in my last year of life that I want to continue doing in this upcoming year. Questions like that really make you think! It feels like we are always on the move and I rarely stop to think about all that has happened in one year.

Some things that came to mind were great memories with friends, wedding celebrations, vacations, and my blog! Not to mention changes at work, church, and even family. A year seems like such a short amount of time but when you really break it down, its so long.

Now that I’m 24, I have finally realized the importance of embracing the things that make me unique. For so many years in college I felt this pressure to be like those around me. This will probably seem really silly, but I remember clearing out my closet a couple months ago and laughing at the light bulb moment I had. I put on some music and just began pulling out all of the clothes in my closet that I didn’t wear or just didn’t feel good about anymore. In the end,  my bed was covered in a pile of colorful clothes, and my closet was a neutral heaven! At that moment I realized I was trying to be someone that I’m not. God created us to be different and bring something unique to the world! Instead of exhausting yourself trying to be something your not, embrace it!

This year, more than ever, I have realized how limiting fear is! It holds you back from doing the things you want to do most. It keeps you from true growth and happiness. That’s why I am committing to push even more outside of my comfort zone and lean into my fears this year. Sometimes it takes a specific day, like your birthday, to give you a little pinch of motivation and remind you what really matters. What’s one thing you have learned as you’ve gotten older? I’d love to know in the comments below!

My Outfit: Blue Floral Two-Piece Set || Strap Sandals || Cross Body Bag || Sunglasses 

Soly’s Outfit: Similar Floral Romper || Tan Peep-Toe Booties || Tory Burch Bag

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2 Comments

  1. Kim McHugh
    April 12, 2017 / 6:51 AM

    You and your dress are lovely! Great reflections on your birthday. May you have a great year as you go forward with what you’ve learned in this last year. One thing I began to do last year that I want to continue going forward is to articulate some of my needs, wants and hurts. Hopefully not to the point of being difficult, but I am letting go of a bit of pride and sometimes saying…”I was hurt when….”, or “I could use your help with…” rather than glossing over the feelings to find them crop up later. This goes for articulating how I feel about others, too….”I really value our friendship”, or “I see what a gift you have of…” I agree with you about fears and this is one tiny step I am taking to let go of some of mine. Thanks for sharing about yours. Happy birthday!!!

    • April 19, 2017 / 8:24 PM

      Thank you 🙂 Such a great point about sharing with other how they make you feel. Sharing is the big step in improving relationships and hopefully learning how to have lasting friendships where you avoid the things that hurt you. Plus recognition of the positive is a powerful thing! Thanks for sharing <3

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