i’ve been in a slump lately—an unsatisfied with my life kind of slump. as a self-reflective person, i tend to analyze and think about my situations often to evaluate my mental, emotional, and physical health/happiness. sometimes, in the frustration of not being where i want or being as happy as i should, i lose sight of what i DO have and benefit from.

the other day, i posted about the “all the single ladies” article written by kate bolick. there, she discusses the state of being single and the idea of marriage today. she talks about a topic that’s been covered in movies, books, and magazines. what i loved about the article was her message that it’s not about marriage, but about finding the right person that you can connect with on all levels. it’s a high ideal but one that shouldn’t be compromised upon. she also highlights female friendships and the support and connection they offer to create a stronger sense of community. it spoke to me, because i think that’s an area of my life i feel i’m lucky to have. do i wish these gals were sometimes more available to be with? yes, but they have their own responsibilities and lives.

coming out of a relationship, it’s a bit jarring. i don’t know if that’s true for guys—or for all of women-kind, but at least for me, it’s like: “hey! who are you again?” when you’ve spent so much time with a person and thought about them so much, it’s intimidating to be faced with true alone time. to think about what YOU want to do, to realize you can do ANYTHING. the prospect of “endless possibilities” is overwhelming. in any case, i’m in a slump. it’s a bit tiring to concentrate on building and working for your career all the time. i do it often in terms of brainstorming ways to improve my portfolio, develop personal projects, search for job openings, apply, and try to network. recently, this has been almost constant because i need distractions and to keep my mind busy. however, do it too much and it takes the joy out of the actual job…it’s something i need to avoid so i can continue being motivated and inspired to pursue.

the hardest part is changing your mental habits and mindset. dwell too much on the good or bad of a former relationship and it keeps you in the past. simple, right? and while we know it, it’s that inescapable hole that occupies your mind. i’m still stuck in that right now—and it’s annoying. i annoy myself with that. 

i recently started reading the happiness project by gretchen rubin. i haven’t gotten too far in it, but i can already see some things i’d want to improve in my character to make me happier. my first resolution, is to think of one thing that makes me smile and happy (for however long) every day. i think acknowledging the little parts of our lives that bring us joy is important to keeping you emotionally strong and mentally fit. so, long-winded story short, that’s what this post is about: 

i’m in a slump and to get out of it, i resolve every day to acknowledge something that brings a smile to my face. (*i probably won’t post everyday here, but i’ll keep a list).

DAY 1, NOVEMBER 11, 2011: my sister’s baby bump. i’m gonna be an auntie! :D