The Year in Review: What You Learned, What You’re Leaving, What You’re Taking
As the year comes to an end, this is a good moment to pause. Not to pressure yourself or replay everything that went wrong, but to reflect. Reflection helps you grow, and learning how to do it early is a gift, especially for young Black girls finding their way in a loud world.
This year probably came with wins, losses, surprises, and lessons you didn’t ask for. That’s okay. Every season teaches something.
What You Learned
This year may have taught you that you don’t need to have everything figured out yet. At 12, 15, or even 18, life is still opening up. You are allowed to change your mind. You are allowed to outgrow old versions of yourself.
You may have learned that your feelings matter. When you’re happy, sad, angry, confused, or tired, those emotions are real and valid. You don’t need to ignore them or hide them to seem “strong.”
You may also have learned that comparing yourself to others doesn’t help. Social media often shows highlights, not the full picture. Everyone is learning, even the people who seem confident or put-together.
Most importantly, this year may have reminded you that being a young Black girl is powerful. Your voice matters. Your ideas matter. Your presence matters.
What You’re Leaving Behind
As the year ends, this is a good time to let some things go.
You can leave behind the pressure to please everyone. It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to choose yourself sometimes.
You can leave behind negative self-talk. The voice that tells you you’re not smart enough, pretty enough, or good enough doesn’t get to move forward with you.
You can also leave behind the fear of trying. Fear of failing, fear of being judged, fear of standing out. Growth comes from trying, even when it feels uncomfortable.
What You’re Taking With You
You’re taking lessons, not regrets. Every mistake taught you something. Every challenge shaped you.
You’re taking confidence, even if it’s still growing. Confidence doesn’t mean you never feel scared. It means you believe in yourself anyway.
You’re taking your dreams seriously. Whatever you love, writing, sports, science, art, leadership, or something you haven’t discovered yet, it matters.
Most of all, you’re taking grace. Grace for bad days. Grace to rest. Grace to grow at your own pace.
As you step into a new year, remember this: you are enough right now. You don’t have to rush. Just keep learning, keep letting go, and keep becoming the incredible young woman you’re meant to be. 💜
