In celebration of my 28th birthday, I’d like to talk about 28 traits I want to cultivate in this next year of my life.

I want to be more…

1. Courageous

2. Confident

3. Authentic

4. Assertive

5. Self-Compassionate

6. Positive

7. Curious

8. Full of Wonder

9. Independent

10. Trusting

11. Humble

12. Selfless

13. Generous

14. Energetic

15. Risk-taking

16. Spontaneous

17. Adaptable

18. Serene

19. Patient

20. A Good Leader

21. Decisive

22. Playful

23. Balanced

24. Eloquent

25. Focused

26. Strong

27. Forgiving

28. Emotionally Regulated

But wait…why am I always so focused on where I need to improve? This past year my focus phrase was “Make Mistakes,” as I wanted to work on overcoming my perfectionism and not being so hard on myself all the time. I struggle to see the good in myself, so of course it’s even more difficult to recognize my strengths publicly. So as an exercise of practicing this right here and now, I’m going to list 28 traits I think I’m already strong in. I am…

1. Kind

2. Caring

3. Empathetic

4. Intuitive

5. Honest

6. a Pursuer of Excellence

7. Accurate

8. Encouraging

9. Creative

10. Disciplined

11. Responsible

12. Appreciative

13. Clever

14. Considerate

15. Hard-working

16. Deep

17. Helpful

18. Loyal

19. Passionate

20. Perceptive

21. Principled

22. Respectful

23. Resourceful

24. Studious

25. Sensitive

26. Wise

27. Warm

28. Persevering

As we come to a new year soon, which often naturally brings about reflection, think on the traits you want to develop this year…but also don’t forget to think on what you’re great at and how far you’ve come. Celebrate your progress, no matter how big or small.

Comment down below to tell me some of the traits you’ve made progress in cultivating this year! 🙂