I told her my usual speech about how I graduated from college (almost 4 years ago... yikes!), still live only 30 minutes away from my family, have multiple jobs, and that I try to dance and perform as often as my schedule allows. That is basically my life in a nutshell. I felt silly telling her what I have been up to because since high school, she has danced professionally and travelled abroad. I told her that I didn't think that I had really done a lot compared to what she has done. But my friend reminded me that I have actually accomplished a lot since I graduated high school.
But what is the meaning of accomplishment?
:something done, achieved, or accomplished successfully
:the successful completion of something
:a special skill or ability gain by practice or training
1. I went to college AND graduated! Dancing in college was one of the most fun, exciting and sometimes stressful times in my life. I grew so much as both a dancer and a person during that time. I am so thankful for the education I received and I couldn't imagine going down any other path.
2. I moved out of my parents house and have lived on my own for 6 years. Minus the year after college when I lived at home, I have been on my own (with some help from my parents) since I was 19! It definitely was not always easy, but I have learned so much and appreciate all of the things I have because I had to work really hard to get them.
3. I still live close to my family. I love my (crazy) family so much that I can't imagine how hard it would be to live so far away from them. I moved far enough away that I could create a life of my own, but not far enough away that I can't see them often. [I would like to experience living in a different state one day, but for now I'm thankful that my family is just 30 minutes away :)]
4. I have a job (or two, or three!) After graduating from college, I had to move back home because I didn't have a job. I call this time "the dark period" because who wants to live at home after you slaved away for four years to earn the most expensive piece of paper I have ever owned?! Well, thankfully only 6 months later I got the two jobs that I still have today. They may not be the most glamorous jobs, and the only benefits I get are little kid drawings and Starbucks gift cards (which I will gladly take any day!), but they are honestly the two best jobs I have ever had! I have the opportunity to teach the next generation of young dancers everything I can from the amazing teachers that I have had over the last 18 years. I also get to work at a fitness studio where the women are so friendly and inspiring that I can't help but smile. I am truly blessed that I have not just one great job but TWO!
5. I still get to dance and perform! I definitely don't dance as much as I used to... I mean I got a degree in dancing barefoot, wearing sweatpants daily and having permanent bun head!! But I still get to dance! Not only do I get to take class every now and then but I have had some AMAZING opportunities to perform over the last few years. I have performed many times while at Cal State Long Beach, even dancing my own choreography! I joined a jazz dance company and performed in L.A. where we got paid! But best of all, I have been a part of the dance ministry at my church for the last three years! I love that not only do I still get to dance, but I get to dance for Jesus! So amazing!
Looking back, it appears that I do in fact have a lot of accomplishments. My accomplishments might be different from someone else but that doesn't mean that either are better than the other. So if you ever feel like you haven't really accomplished anything in your life or feel like you a stuck in a rut, just look back at all of the things you have done, no matter how big or small, and smile at all of the wonderful things you have accomplished :)
