I’m not massively into New Years Resolutions or the ‘new year, new me’ mantra that gets overused each January for a number of reasons. You have people self-scrutinising over eating a Malteser celebration- or enjoying a cocktail, if they’ve reluctantly forced themselves into Dry January and to me, as much as we’ve entered a new year, the difference between 2018 and 2019 is a day. Just like any other day.

Needless to say, you won’t find me posting an Instagram along the lines of ‘1. Go to the gym, 2. Drink more water, 3. Spend less time on my phone.’ vocalising all the ways I will magically turn into a more well-rounded individual throughout 2019. Having said that, between you and me, I have reflected on some things that I view a little differently starting this year.

I recently found Morgan Harper Nichols, who writes in the most beautiful, artistic way. Again, I’m contradicting my usual self, as I find that quotes and daily wisdom can all become a bit cliche. However, Nichols, I can vouch for. Her work is stunning.

This is one of my favorite pieces of hers that’s truly resonated with me. 2018 was the hardest to get through by far and there were points where I struggled a lot with coping with personal circumstances. However, I am starting this year with a positive outlook, confident that good things are to come and stronger than I have ever been.

My academic mindset has shifted in that I’m choosing not to be hard on myself. The first term of my degree has been overwhelming and there have been points where I’ve told myself that I might not be cut out for it. I’ve realised that self-doubt and a lack of confidence will only negatively impact my creative ability and that also, I have produced work over the last few months that I know I’ve put the full effort in and that I’m proud of. So as long as I’m putting my everything into uni and taking it in my stride, I’ll be fine. A reasonable amount of stress is healthy, I care about what I’m creating and there’s a need to be somewhat critical of yourself. But nothing like last year. No, no, no!

For the sake of being stubborn, I’m not going to admit that I am entering 2019 with ‘resolutions’. But I know that I want to continue learning constantly, put my all into everything and ease up on myself. I’m not going to hold myself back.

To see more of Morgan’s work (I know you’re tempted) :

https://morganharpernichols.com