January.
That’s all I have to say.
I feel like a lot of us had an interesting January. Mine was honestly all over the place and just weird. There were things I didn’t see coming, but I’m definitely wiser because of them.
With that being said, I thought I’d share a few things l learned last month in hopes that it helps you as we’re still adjusting into 2020.
Consult Your Circle
Friends and family (and, of course, God) literally carried me through January. I faced a situation that felt like a punch in the gut, but they helped ease the pain.
The in-person talks, phone calls, car rides and dinner dates renewed my attitude and perspective. They reaffirmed who I am and told me things like, “You’re a king, you’re a son of God, no one can define you.”
They also gave me wise counsel on how to move forward. I believe these moments show you who’s on your side. It’s one thing to say you’ll be there and it’s another to actually be there for people.
I also have to give a major shoutout to my car, Anderson Tyree Britt (yes, he has a full government name) for being a safe space to express my emotions. I sometimes feel like he says, “I’m gonna need you to get it together, sir.”
Nevertheless, Anderson lets me talk everything out.
Recharge
You can’t stay in a situation for too long. Do something or go somewhere that allows you to get peace.
Towards the middle of the month, I took a little road trip with my friend/brother, Cecil, to Chattanooga for a wedding. Let me tell you, our bro time was much needed.
This trip was timed perfectly, so we were able to talk through similar situations and encourage each other.
Another highlight was seeing so many great friends from college. It’s hard maintaining relationships when you don’t see people as often as you used to, but we picked up where we left off.
It was like therapy being able to catch up and talk about navigating the world as young adults.
My soul was fed simply by our laughs and stories.
Learn From It
Tyra Banks said it best, “Learn something from this.”
I believe tough moments show you who you really are. They teach you how to persevere, establish boundaries and respond when similar situations occur.
A personal takeaway from last month is the value of being vulnerable. I generally hold things in until I reach a breaking point, but that’s not good.
Being able to talk things out as they unfolded made a major difference in my mood and mindset. It was the only way I was able to keep my head up and put one foot in front of the other.
There’s no instruction manual to this thing called life, but I’m learning these experiences, good or bad, are the greatest teachers.
Caleb Britt 