Spring is here, and Q2 is in full swing. As I reflect on the first three months of the year, I'm excited about all that is in store for the coming months. While working toward the goals I set in January, I'm proud of my progress and prepared to overcome my challenges.
After returning to CA from spending the holidays on the East Coast with my family, I came home to quarantine for two weeks then left again to celebrate my sister’s 25th Birthday in Atlanta, GA. Anytime I visit with my family I return fulfilled. While in Atlanta we enjoyed amazing meals at Nouveau Bar ATL and Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. It was my first time having both, and I’d highly recommend stopping by on your next visit to the city.
The seafood grits at Nouveau Bar ATL were a table favorite, but everything on the menu was delicious. The same is true for Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse which is likely available in a city near you.
I’m a firm believer in celebrating victories, large and small, and practicing gratitude along the way. Here I’ve outlined the highlights, wins and challenges of my year so far in effort to chronicle my journey and hold myself accountable.
Faith
As this post goes live the day after Resurrection Sunday, one of the things I'm most proud of is my intentionality in spending more time with Christ. I’m learning more about him and myself through him and those he used to show us the way to live. I have dived into two devotionals and completed two studies in addition to reading my Bible.
In January I said yes to leading a group of women through Rooted, a 10 week, experience that I had the opportunity to complete in 2019. I also continued leading Co-leading my life group and participated in several leadership trainings. Finally, one of my goals this year was to spend more time with God in fasting, and I have basically been fasting since the beginning of the year. I started with a 30-day fast to kick off 2021, and then observed Lent. It has truly reminded me the power and importance of intimate time with God.
Health
Although movement during the workday and practicing cardio and or HIIT three days a week has been a challenge, I have been consistent in taking daily multi-vitamins completing 10K steps and practicing yoga and mindfulness. Although I’ve missed 17 days of completing 10K steps, I average 10K a week and only missed a couple weeks just below 70K. I'm also grateful that I have not been negatively impacted by Coronavirus or any other illnesses beyond inconvenience in this season of a global pandemic.
Work Life
This year at TGR Foundation, we are celebrating 25 years of impact. Our team has been busy planning and executing our year-long anniversary celebration while continuing to serve students, families and educators that benefit from our education (virtual) events, programs and resources. We recently learned that we will be returning to the office on June 1. Although I love working from home, not much will change in terms of my schedule. Remote work has been a dream come true and is just a lot more convenient. I'm sad that it will soon come to an end, but I will enjoy every moment of the last eight weeks of it.
As a member of the 2021 Values Committee, I was recently able to collaborate with my peers to execute a celebration of the cultures within our organization, and it was a rewarding experience. I loved learning about my colleagues beyond their work roles. It was very insightful and enlightening to see the overlap of cultures. Food was the most popular commonality, and everyone seemed to enjoy the celebration. Our planning committee received positive feedback.
Personal Life
Most people who know me know that I love personal and professional development, and this year I have done a lot of self-reflection. I'm addressing some bad habits and ugly truths to become the best daughter, sister, friend, employee and person I can be in all the roles that I fulfill while striving to be more like Christ every day.
Service remained a priority as I continued volunteering in my church. I also honored the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. in a service project and heard from a civil rights icon on King’s birthday in his memory.
My sister and I attempted something new as we tested an Instagram live series called “Sister Sunday” in February. It was unsuccessful as I faced technical difficulties each week and led to us eventually canceling the series. Although it was not a success, I am proud that we tried it, stepped outside of our comfort zones and spent quality time together in the process. I also began my journey through laser hair removal, read three books, and won challenges each month including a full line of Flawless by Gabrielle Union haircare products, sweet treats from a Sugar Wish giveaway, and Saint Patrick's Day gear from a work celebration.
The first quarter of 2021 has come and gone, but I know there’s so much in store for us this year. What has been your greatest accomplishment of 2021? Share with me below in the comments or connect with me on social media @JASMINECTATE.
Hugs & Handshakes,
Jasmine C. Tate