As this year draws to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting on how much my perspective has shifted. This year, I made a conscious decision to look at life differently—a choice that has transformed my day-to-day existence. I’ve started to truly seek joy in everyday moments, even in the ones that once felt ordinary or inconvenient.
One of the most impactful changes I’ve made is letting go of venting. Venting used to feel cathartic—a way to process frustration or anger by sharing it with someone else. But I’ve come to realize that every time I vent, I’m reliving the problem. It doesn’t solve the issue; it keeps it alive in my mind and, often, in the minds of those I vent to. This realization led me to a new approach: feel the feelings, and then let them go.
Don’t get me wrong—I’m not perfect. There are still moments when frustration spills out, but I’ve become much more intentional about handling those feelings. When I’m upset, I allow myself to acknowledge it, process it, and then release it. Holding on to anger or annoyance only steals the joy from the present moment. Instead of venting, I focus on moving forward and finding something positive to anchor my thoughts.
This mindset has also helped me let go of complaints about things beyond my control. The weather, for example, used to be a frequent source of grumbling. Now, I’ve shifted my perspective. Rainy days bring a cozy calmness; snow transforms the world into a magical landscape. Why waste energy complaining about something I can’t change when there’s beauty to be found in it?
By embracing these changes, I’ve discovered that joy isn’t tied to perfect circumstances. It’s often found in the simplest things: a kind word, a cup of coffee, a moment of stillness. This shift hasn’t just improved my own mindset—it’s positively impacted my relationships. My kids, husband, and coworkers feel less of my frustration, and I feel more peace.
As we head into a new year, I’m grateful for this lesson. Life is far too precious to spend it reliving problems or focusing on what we can’t control. Instead, I’m choosing joy—and that’s a gift I want to carry with me every day and share and model for my kids.
