Kwanza Day 2: Kujichagulia

Self-determination...this is a principal I endeavor to live out everyday. Making my own decisions about who and what I am. As a child growing up in the US, I was constantly faced with covert and overt messages that I was not pretty, that I did not matter. Living in America today, one could feel the same way when we see the disparities in the way we are treated and the obstacles that seem to constantly be put in our way.

But I choose to define myself, for myself. I spent last year deciding that I have other options for where I call home and established residency in another country. It was freeing and empowering, but also lonely. My family did not decide to join me on my journey, even though I was making the move for all of us to have this opportunity.

When I decided to make moves that others did not understand, I lost some friends and gained some new ones. People will be drawn to the light within or repelled by it- either way I have no control over the reactions of others. My task is to live fully in the knowledge of who I am and who I am striving to become- to myself, to my family and to the community that I serve.

Spend 2023 finding ways to define yourself and take control of your destiny. Whether you do something big or small, take the first steps towards self-determination. If you are ready to embark on the journey to self discovery, an accountability coach might be right for you.

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Make Kujichagulia a principle to strive for 365 days a year.