Every month of my life has a theme — a mirror, a lesson, a growth edge. I live intentionally, not accidentally. So, when I identify the theme, I lean into it. Sometimes, it’s beautiful. Sometimes, it breaks me open so I can finally rebuild myself stronger.
December tested me like no other month. My December’s theme was: “Connect with my dreams.” I did connect — but not in the way I expected.
December forced me to shed an identity:
“I am a very patient person… but don’t push me against the wall.”
I realized this identity has been a recurring pattern that never served me. My so-called patience always led to regret. Because being “patient” meant tolerating things I didn’t like… with people who didn’t deserve that grace… and even when I was paying for the service.
And here is what I learned about disrespect — from others and from ourselves:
The moment you open the door and let it in, don’t be surprised when it shows up uninvited, sitting at your breakfast table, making demands.
I entered an agreement with a woman who put outrageous terms in place —
and I accepted. I fulfilled my side; she didn’t fulfill hers. And still, I renewed the agreement again and again.
In 2025, my word of the year became Wealthy. I started befriending my money, respecting it, doing the forgiveness work around it.
So, when renewal time came and she added even more demands… I finally said: No.
That moment felt so out of character for me. I don’t like confrontation. But this time, I stood my ground.
My stomach ached from anxiety… but I did not back down.
Here’s the truth:
If you let people, they will climb on your head. Some care only about their own wellbeing — and that’s their right. Now it’s my right to put myself first.
This isn’t me becoming “hard.” This is me requiring that my rights are respected — not someday, but the moment the agreement is made.
I cannot blame her.
I must take full responsibility.
I chose patience — and for what?
For nothing.
I was still living in a scarcity mindset while there are thousands of people I could have worked with.
And yes, I am mad at myself.
But I am also forgiving myself.
And I am learning…
Fear is a monster built one story at a time.
It is not real.
Not this kind of fear — the kind that keeps you small, quiet, and compliant.
And I’m done with that.
💥Closing
2025 is the year I stop asking permission to be respected.
My boundaries are non-negotiable.
And patience will no longer be my prison.
Salima
Just me thinking out loud over here