Modcloth Haul Dani Austin
Modcloth Sequin Dress // Nude Pumps // Studs // Clutch

Wow. I cannot believe how quickly 2017 passed by. I am reflecting on all the tremendous blessings and obstacles that these 365 days brought. Also, feeling super grateful for beautiful, sequin dresses like this one from Modcloth that are letting me shine the last few days of 2017 so I can enter 2018 on a great note.

I don’t usually set New Year’s Resolutions because I feel like every day is a new opportunity to become your best self. But I can already tell that this year is going to be a very special year. I am getting married in 5 months, growing my business further, and most importantly, constantly trying to be a better resource to you guys!

So I wanted to hold myself accountable for these Five Things in 2018:

1. Learning to say “no” in situations that do not fulfill me or allow me to grow into a better person.
This is the biggest thing I struggled with in 2017. It’s easy to get caught up in busy-ness/business, but I never felt like I was putting myself in situations that motivated me to become my best self. There is no time like the present to take charge of your life and pursue interactions that allow you to cultivate joy within yourself.

2. Focusing on strengthening my current relationships and pushing myself out of my comfort zone to meet new people.
This year I moved back to Dallas, and honestly, it was difficult to find a close group of friends here. I let my busy-ness become an excuse for not putting myself out there more this year. But I won’t let that crossover to 2018. Instead, I will focus on establishing a strong community here of ladies of encouragement and fellowship. And the relationship I have with y’all is something I value more than anything. You have no idea how grateful I am to share and grow with y’all.

3. Discover what truly inspires me.
Fashion trends are constantly evolving and my taste in fashion is changing, too. Last year, I was obsessed with overall jumpers and my dark hair. This year I have embraced hair extensions and the masculine-feminine style (mixing business dress with soft details) for outfits. However, I definitely lost track of what my personal style was; amidst all the sales and new fashion trends, I forgot how to express myself through my style.

This is what I love about fashion, guys. You adapt it to become a reflection of yourself. I like to think that my use of blazers and thick booties with lace cami’s and mini skirts, resembling a more masculine-feminine vibe, shows that I am a GIRL BOSS. If we don’t use fashion for good, AKA empowering ourselves to fulfill the roles we have always dreamed, we are wasting time and money!

4. Managing my time to enjoy the little things in life.
This year I felt like my head was down and I missed opportunities to thoroughly appreciate the blessings thrown my way. I consumed my days with work and all of my ideas, but didn’t slow down enough to be in the present moment. I want to allow myself more time to relish in the little things because I believe these are the most precious.

5. Understanding that my value comes from God alone, and strive to be a light for Him in everything I do.
This year, I am overwhelmingly grateful for all the challenges that allowed me to learn and the blessings that I could have never imagined. I owe it all to God’s exceptional grace. I desire for everything I do and create to exemplify God’s love for each of us.

I challenge you guys to admit when you’re having a bad day. Rejoice in the small victories but ask for help when you’re hurting. Don’t be afraid to admit failure. Let go of trying to be perfect – and embrace where you’re at in life.
No one is like you. You’re the best you that there will ever be. You’re smart. You’re fun. You’re an amazing friend. And most importantly God says you’re good enough.

After reflecting on your 2017, what are some areas that you need to focus more attention to become your best self in 2018?

xo, Dani

Modcloth Haul Dani AustinModcloth Haul Dani Austin

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