9 Things I Hope You Talk About In 2019

1.   I hope you talk about your passions – because they give you life.

If you’ve been keeping your passions to yourself, I encourage you to share them – at the dinner table, in the classroom, or at the workplace – everywhere you go. If you’re disappointed with the response from those around you, it’s okay – talk about them more and the like-minded (passionate) people will find you, I promise. I think we underestimate how much life, purpose, and inspiration our passions give us – in 2019, I hope you spend more time with them.

2.  I hope you talk about mental health – because it matters and we need to change the conversation.

All of us – directly or indirectly – are impacted by mental illness. It’s something that divides us, but instead, it should bond us. The stigmas create shame and isolation – each of us plays a role, if you don’t have a story to share, you have an obligation to listen to one. And if you’re struggling, I want you to know that you are not alone. The best days of your life haven’t happened yet – and you deserve to experience those days. You are worthy of help, love, and support. This conversation is going to change, and we need you to be there when it does. You are stronger than you think – what is harder than fighting with your mind every day? You are loved. You matter.

3.   I hope you talk about the parts of a human that is worth complimenting – because weight and body shape are not one of them.

Society has conditioned us to associate weight with beauty and wellbeing. Body shape is too sensitive of a topic – and also, none of our fucking business. Let’s talk about work ethic, sense of humor, hobbies, intelligence, goals, and ambitions – in 2019, let’s be part of the solution – not the problem.

4.  I hope you talk about things that are going well – because optimism is contagious and the world needs more of it.

Your energy is a vibration of your thoughts and ideas. Challenge yourself to see the best in everyone and everything – and if you can’t, surround yourself with people who can (and do). In 2019, let’s celebrate the good – because there’s a lot of beautiful people doing beautiful things.

5.   I hope you talk about sustainability – because it’s too important not to.

I remember the first time my professor shared the United Nation’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals – I was overwhelmed. We’re fucked – I thought to myself. If you’re thinking the same thing – stop. Pick one goal that resonates with you – and do one thing a day that brings the world closer to achieving that goal. Integrate practices into your classroom, workplace, home, and social circles – impact, big or small, is still impact. It’s that simple.

6.  I hope you talk about your goals – because that will bring you closer to achieving them.

Write them down. Use simple, direct language. Set a deadline. Post it on social media, tell your friends, or tape it on the bathroom mirror. Accountability will get you there. And when it gets hard (because it should – no goals should be easy), keep going. 2019 is your year for goal crushing.

7.   I hope you talk about the present moment – because we’re often distracted by what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow.

Our anxieties are derived from things we cannot change or control – things that have already or may never happen. By being present, you rid yourself of these anxieties. In 2019, I hope you find, and enjoy more present moments.

8.   I hope you talk about the things that make you laugh – because if you’re not having fun, what’s the point?

Maintain a strong work ethic, be ambitious, and hit your deadlines – but don’t take life too seriously. Be goofy, ridiculous and childish. Put on your favorite shoes and have a dance party in the kitchen. Sing (really loud) in the shower. Go to karaoke with a group of friends (ideally friends that can’t sing). Go to a comedy night. Play charades. Find those things that make you laugh – and do a lot of them. I hope 2019 is filled with moments where you’re laughing so hard your stomach hurts – because those are some of the best moments of your life.

9.  I hope you talk about your (whole) story – because it will heal you, and others.

Storytelling is the most powerful form of communication. Stories have power – they touch, inspire, challenge, motivate, and help us understand. Our insecurities, hardships, and mistakes connect us – they make us relatable. In 2019, I hope you share your whole story – you’ll be surprised by how many people you inspire to do the same.