Define normal?
Let me start by apologizing for my silence. I admit I have been distant and inconsistent with my emails as well as my Instagram post. Afterall, I’m only HUMAN. If you are all caught up with my blogs you’ll notice that my last entry was at the end of January, where I shared a prayer with you ( if you haven’t checked that blog out, do yourself a favor and do so). I decided to take February and March off for some personal reasons.
“ The healer also needs healing, The planner also needs surprises,
the giver also needs to receive, the thoughtful also needs to be thought of.
The considerate also needs to be considered.” - Found on IG
During my time off, I took a self appreciation inventory: my way of fueling the fire of my ambition- DO NOT JUDGE ME. It’s great to set goals, create vision boards, and make new plans but in doing so, it’s often easy to forget how far we’ve come or have accomplished. Self inventory is not something I normally do. If this is your norm, I respect that. However, I struggle when it comes to dissecting my life under the microscope. Being brutally honest about the things I could have done better, is something I am working on; which leads me to my topic of discussion for this blog.
I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but everyone has been talking about “ the New Normal” or “Normalizing”. I do not know what the new normal is or will be post Covid. After all, I don’t believe there is such a thing as normal. I think we all have a preferred way of living because what works for you may not work for me. In reality, Your normal is the real normal. It is not what society has set in place. On the other hand, I still think there are some things that need to be accepted as standard in one's life; I think that’s what “Normalizing” is all about. Here are five things I think should be standard in everyone’s life:
Normalize taking time out- It’s ok to not be present all the time. Sign out of the social media platforms for once and focus on you. Take time out to reflect, recharge, rejuvenate. Sociologically, psychologically, I don't think it’s healthy to have so many people in your space or in your life all the time. Too many people equals too many concepts, opinions, and ideas. Your mind, body, and soul need rest too. Overworking yourself can lead to self destruction
Normalize not explaining your choices to others- This is something I know many people struggle with. Keep in mind, you do not owe anyone an explanation- including your parents. Afterall, what difference will it make if you explain yourself or not?
Normalize expired friendships- More friends does not mean more quality. If someone wants to part ways with you, by all means, LET THEM GO. It’s self-disrespect to be begging others to stay in your life. Know your worth. Accept what you have no control over ( people’s choices).
Normalize saying no- I admit I struggle with this. I have a hard time saying no to my parents and anyone older than me. I know it’s a cultural thing and I am learning to unlearn this behavior. I encourage you to do the same.
Normalize not answering the phone- The one thing I hate more than dirt in my eyes is someone sitting at a dining table with a phone in their hands. We've been trained to exchange human relations for likes and followers. We’ve lost touch of what real relationships, connections, communication are because of a device. Know that you are not 911, nor do you operate a hospital. Everything can wait. You do not have to answer the phone. The more people have access to you, the more they feel like they have the rights to you. Set boundaries sis!
One last thing, it feels so good to share this blog with you! I miss hearing from you. Let’s talk. Leave a comment. Share some of your norms with me or what you’re trying to normalize at this time of your life. Don’t forget to subscribe for more updates.