Interdependence

For 2020 I set a goal for myself to cultivate better relationships, both platonically and romantically. What this means for me is building meaningful relationships with reciprocal energy. I want my interactions to lead with growth and positivity. I want to have conversations surrounding goals and dreams. Like they say if you want to see change in your world you have to be the change.

In the name of self-development, I am challenging myself to become a better communicator with those around me. In developing that skill, I would also need to focus on listening and being vulnerable on a higher level. Although I consider myself to be great in all these areas, I must really be honest with myself that at some moments I am not at all. It takes a certain level of self-awareness and accountability to admit that out loud. Once I was able to admit my short comings it created the need for me to improve.

First step was getting clear on what I want my relationships to look and feel like. The important factor to me was interdependence.  A healthy balance between myself and the other person was at the top of my list. I want to build relationships that support each other’s physical and emotional needs. In return, being able to maintain my sense of self in the process and convey that need to others. I love the idea of being able to collaborate but maintaining my personal identity simultaneously.

In the past I have operated from codependent spaces and over time lost my sense of self because I was catering to external factors and other people. I realized that for healthy relationships to develop and thrive I had to look at life differently. I want the relationships I build to be sustainable and long-term and in a meaningful way. I want to do this without compromising myself or the happiness of those around me.

This year is about growth and autonomy on all levels. This year is about creating safe spaces for myself and the people in my life. This year is about not being afraid to ask for what I want in others. As I continue to reflect on improving in these areas it is the underlining theme for me to also improve as a person.