2016 was a very eventful year that brought an overabundance of social catastrophe, flailing emotions, and a Trump presidency. With that being said, a lot of us aren't here for it next year. Too much has happened, and too many lessons have been learned to accept any less than, if we didn't know before, what we deserve. Therefore, allow me to break it down for you below (in no particular order):
1. Shade In The Form Of Sarcastic Jokes
We all know that that feeling when you're feeling yourself, your outfit is on point, hair and everything is just yes. Yet there is always that one person that says something like "Ooh girl, you really want to wear that? *laughs* Just kidding!"
Nah. No, they weren't. And so went the confidence high. Don't do it next year. Also, don't tolerate it if it comes in your direction. Let that energy go and continue to block that negativity. You deserve better. Which brings me to my next point...
2. Passive Aggression
We are too dang old to act like we can't talk to other people about how we're feeling. Do you post little things on social media about people pretending you mean it "if the shoe fits?" Cut that out. Cut people off with no warning? Cut that out. Pretending you don't have feelings? Cut that out. It's been socially acceptable up until now. I think it's time to start addressing that inner turmoil. We have to get better at communicating if we want to be your best selves.
3. "Boxer Braids"
Just leave it. In short, stop "creating" trends that you know were already there.
4. Bigoted Political Opinions
First things first, if you're that nervous to voice your political "opinion" for fear of getting cut up or offending someone, your view may actually be harmful to others and it's time to re-evaluate some things. If people tell you it's harmful and give you cold, hard, and historical facts, think about it,
5. Apple V. Samsung
Stop, just stop. I'll admit, this one is still funny. But unless you're going to buy me an iPhone, shut up. Some people also just believe that Samsung/Android products are superior to Apple products. You can't belittle someone else's experience.
6. Overdrawn Lips
Who can you fool? Like I'm really going to see you on the street and think this...
...is real.
I know it's hard when you have been force-fed societal standards of beauty, but you have to learn to eventually love your little lips. The person you end up with will see the real ones eventually, so just be you. We all have things we don't love about ourselves. It takes time, but you'll get through like the rest of us. When you do, it'll be the best feeling in the world.
7. #WASTEHIS/HERTIME2016
Stop playing.
Enjoy your year, proceed with caution, and collect your blessings.