2024 is here! A brand new year to start fresh and the perfect time to reflect. Was there anything last year that made an impact? Some things you might wanna explore more and some things you wanna leave behind?
Setting intentions can be a powerful tool and small steps can set a lot in motion!
Here are our 'Ins' and 'Outs' for the year ahead.
In: Buying local
These past couple of years have been tough for many, including your local small businesses. By shopping locally you are helping the economy and keeping independent creators afloat. It's tough out there against multi-million dollar giants offering low prices. But take a moment to reflect on why they can offer said prices. The answers aren't that pretty...And do these big corporate bosses do a little happy dance every time they make a sale? They don't, but you betcha that most of us small business owners do!
Out: Quantity over quality
Trends contribute to overconsumption of 'fast fashion' and when these trends end those synthetic materials end up in landfills. We encourage you to buy pieces you'll love for years to come and that truly spark joy. Buy less and invest in pieces that'll last long.
In: Being fearless with fashion
Ever seen a style of clothing or print you loved but felt afraid to try? We hear it all the time; 'oh I'm too old/too fat/too skinny' to wear that. But we say nonsense! This is your year to start wearing what you love.
Out: Staying in your comfort zone
What is holding you back from living your best life and expressing the vibrant person within? Is it fear of judgement? You wouldn't be alone. But what if I told you people have opinions no matter what? Dita Von Teese said it best; 'You can be the ripest juiciest peach in the world and there's still gonna be somebody that hates peaches'
We cannot grow without pushing ourselves just a little.
In: Setting boundaries
Accept that setting boundaries with people might not make you the most popular, but those who would get upset if you stood your ground tend to be the ones who benefit from your discomfort in the first place. Do what is best for you. Stop saying 'yes' to things if it means you are saying 'no' to yourself.
Out: Stretching yourself thin
You know that common saying 'You can't pour from an empty cup'? It's a popular quote for a reason. Your time and energy are precious, protect them. You can say no and still be a kind person, don't let anyone (including yourself) tell you any different.
In: Body neutrality
It is impossible to LOVE and adore every single part of your body. It's simply not realistic to expect that from anyone. You are allowed to have a desire to make changes as long as you also acknowledge that you are so much more than your appearance and your worth does not depend on how you look.
Via @thelotuscollaborative
Out: Forced body positivity
With the rise of popularity in the Body Positivity movement also came this radical notion that you most love every single part of yourself. But who does? And why put so much focus on our bodies? It sort of became yet another unrealistic thing for us to adhere to. But so what you don't love your arms? Are you less of a person because you don't like the way they jiggle? Of course not. Understand that life goes on regardless and our bodies change with time. You don't have to adore how you look to feel great about yourself.
So what do you think? Do you have any 'ins and outs' yourself this year?
Whatever you choose we hope you make it a year to remember!