Five Doubts I Had in 2021

Beginning of 2021, I thought that my greatest concern would be the Coronavirus and figuring out my life post-graduation, but there is a lot more that I didn't consider.

1. Insufficient Time

It felt as if I barely had time to sit down and breathe that entire year. Not only was I a full-time student, but I was working on-campus throughout the week and visiting my boyfriend and family every weekend. Although I was constantly tired, looking back, I’m content with the fact that I was busy. I was employed, in a relationship, able to spend time with my family, and graduate ahead of time. Time is better spent being busy than wasted.

2. Hierarchy of Relationships

I never thought it would be this hard to balance relationships with my significant other, family, and friends. I tried my best to not be a terrible girlfriend, daughter, and friend, but I am sure I let down some people along the way. Now that I am in my 20s, “I know that there are things I will turn down and say no to, because the health of my relationship comes first.”

3. Unemployed Graduate

I was concerned that COVID would affect my possibilities of employment. And guess what? I was unemployed towards the end of 2021, but COVID had nothing to do with it. Although I did experience unemployment, it wasn’t for long. Waiting wasn't easy, and it felt lonely. Like I was the only person who wasn’t moving forward in life. Ultimately, I found a new opportunity and a new sense of direction in an industry I hadn't even considered.

4. Moving to a New City

Sure, I only moved five hours away from my hometown, but that means that I am five hours away from my family and childhood friends. When I told my parents, the conversation felt like I was breaking up with them. As Latinx parents, they questioned me, but they supported my decision in the end. The transition has been easy, thanks to my boyfriend, but I do miss family weekends and coffee dates with friends sometimes.

5. Not Posting on Instagram

I hate that this was one of my concerns because I know there are more serious things to worry about, but I haven’t felt comfortable posting on my feed since April 2021. I disapprove of every image of myself because of the flaws I see in them. The biggest flaw is my body. This year I hope to change that. I am a social media professional and should feel confident enough to see beauty in myself the same way I see in other people’s accounts. I’m not a diamond in the rough, but I believe I am a precious gem that deserves to shine like the rest.

2021 was a year of drastic changes, crying sessions, and overwhelming emotions, not just for me but probably for you as well. Entering the new year, I still have some of the same concerns and new ones, but I have a lot of aspirations that trump my doubts.

Let's make this year a year where we discourage toxic behaviors and celebrate every little accomplishment. This new year can be full of new beginnings and the ending of chapters. You have full control of your story and who plays a part in it. Don't forget that.