Reflecting on Birthdays: A Journey Through Life
A birthday is a special occasion that comes once a year, and it's an opportunity to reflect on our lives, the journey so far, and where we want to go in the future. I celebrated my birthday earlier this month. For me, birthdays bring a mix of emotions, from joy and excitement to sadness and nostalgia. I have found reflecting on my birthday is a powerful tool that has to lead to growth and self-discovery.
Looking back on the past year can help us to see how far we've come and what we've accomplished. We can reflect on our successes, challenges, and areas for growth. This introspective look can also help us to identify patterns and habits that we may want to continue or change. For example, I have the tendency to overthink things and get caught up in the details. Knowing this pattern, I made it a goal of mine last year to try to stay in the present moment, not get caught up in every detail, and be at peace with the pace of life.
In addition to reflecting on our personal lives, birthdays can also be an opportunity to reflect on our relationships with others. I like to think about the people who have been an important part of my life over the past year and consider how I can deepen those connections in the future. This is where you come in, you all have been part of my journey this year and I am so grateful for your continued readership! 
As I continue to reflect on my birthday I consider my life goals. What do I want to achieve in the next year? What steps can I take to make those goals a reality? I consider what legacy I want to leave behind, and how I can make a positive impact in the world. It might sound strange but it is helpful for me to think about what I want my tombstone to read and then I ask myself my I living up to the inscription.
Finally, speaking of tombstones, birthdays are a reminder of my own mortality. It's a reminder that life is short and can spend my life unhappy, worrying about things that are out of my control or I can cherish the moment. I work on practicing gratitude in order to recognize the good things in my life this helps me live life to the fullest, take chances (like starting a business during a pandemic!), and think about the things that bring value to my life.  
Reflecting on my birthday is a valuable experience. It has helped me grow personally. It provides an opportunity to look back on the past, consider the present, and plan for the future. Birthdays are a reminder that life is a journey, and we should take advantage of every opportunity to make the most of it.
You don't have to wait until it is your birthday to reflect. What is something you are proud of? What is something you might want to do differently? What activities bring value to your life?
Now after all of this reflection, it is time for cake!
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