Old me would eat perfect for my New Years Resolution, follow the diet to a tee, and swear up and down I’d stick to the rules. By January 10th? It was binge eating city, all over again. 

There’s a reason why I failed my diet and my New Years Resolution year after year, and that’s exactly what I’m talking about in this weeks episode. 

15 Lessons Learned in 2023 (and a Few Laughs Along the Way)

Welcome, dear reader! If you’re ready for some personal growth mixed with a sprinkle of humor and a dash of wit, you’re in the right place. Grab a cozy seat as we dive into the top 15 lessons learned from 2023—because life’s too short not to laugh at our own chaos.

1. Health is the Real MVP

We’ve all been there—only appreciating our health after we’re sniffling, sneezing, and Googling “how to cure a cold in 10 minutes.” Lesson one: stop taking your health for granted. Whether you’re rocking a treadmill or just walking to the fridge, be grateful for what your body can do. Pro tip: Say “thank you” every morning. Bonus points if you don’t stub your toe getting out of bed.

2. Failing Is Just Stopping with Drama

Who knew success is just persistent failing minus the drama? Whether you’re starting a business or trying to quit the chocolate stash (Therese, we see you), keep going. Small steps forward are still steps—unless you’re on a treadmill, then you’re just impressively stuck in place.

3. Question Everything, Especially Yourself

Ever realized the things you believe might not even be yours? Cue existential crisis! The beliefs we adopt from childhood authority figures often stick like that gum on your shoe. Start questioning your reactions. Did Karen’s email really ruin your day, or are you just angry?

4. Not Having It Figured Out Is Totally Fine

Society’s arbitrary timelines are a joke. If anyone asks why you’re not married, buying a house, or popping out kids, just smile and say, “I’m prioritizing happiness over deadlines.” Bonus: watch them squirm.

5. Growth Lives Outside Your Comfort Zone

Trying new things is scary—whether it’s public speaking or confronting that mystery smell in your fridge. But, my friend, the magic happens outside your comfort zone. Start small: talk to your barista, or wear mismatched socks on purpose. Boom, growth.

6. Don’t Take It Personally (Even the ‘K’ Text)

Someone sent you “K” instead of “Okay”? Calm down; they probably just have a bad signal, not a vendetta. Life hack: not everything is about you. (Shocking, I know.) Read The Four Agreements for more gems like this.

The word “should” is a trap. Stop “should-ing” on yourself and start “want-ing.” Life’s too short to chase societal checkboxes. Choose your path, even if it means ordering dessert first.

8. Sleep: The Ultimate Cure-All

Sleep is the Beyoncé of health habits—it trumps nutrition and exercise. A good night’s sleep fixes nearly everything. So go to bed early, and no, Netflix can’t tuck you in. You’ll thank me when you wake up a new person.

9. Is It True? Probably Not

Before spiraling into a full-blown drama about why your coworker gave you side-eye, ask yourself: Is this true? Most of the time, it’s not. Overthinking is just creative storytelling without royalties.

10. People Ahead of You Aren’t Judging You

Worried about what others think? The people you admire were once rookies too. They’re too busy living their dreams to critique your beginner mistakes. The lesson? Ignore the peanut gallery and post that Instagram reel.

11. Nobody Is Thinking About You

Hate to break it to you, but everyone’s too busy overanalyzing themselves to notice your mismatched outfit or your karaoke fail. Relax; nobody remembers your cringe moments except you.

12. The Law of Attraction Is Real

Ever noticed how bad days snowball into worse ones, but good vibes lead to even more good vibes? Coincidence? Nope. It’s the law of attraction. Focus on the positive, and watch the universe toss good things your way—like that last-minute concert ticket or an extra fry at the drive-thru.

13. Adults Are Just Big Kids on a Playground

Adults are basically children with bills. When life gets tough, hit the swings at your local park—it’s cheaper than therapy and twice as fun. Plus, you’ll rediscover the joy of simple things.

14. Your Back Pain Might Be Your Feelings

Before blaming your mattress for your aching back, consider this: it might be repressed emotions. (Yes, even that one time your coworker ate your lunch.) Read Healing Your Back by Dr. John Sarno and prepare to have your mind—and possibly your pain—blown.

15. Feel the Feelings, Even the Messy Ones

Last but not least, stop bottling up emotions like a soda about to explode. Let them out, ugly cry if you must, and move on. It’s not weakness; it’s humanity.

2023 taught us to question, grow, and laugh at life’s absurdity. As we step into 2024, let’s bring these lessons along—and maybe an extra dose of self-compassion. Until next time, keep thriving, keep laughing, and for goodness’ sake, get some sleep.

Now go forth and live your best, most unapologetically quirky life. And remember: nobody’s thinking about you as much as you are. 😉

Follow me for daily tips on Instagram! @kellylwellness

Are you ready to stop overeating and finally be in control around food? Watch my FREE training How to Stop Binge Eating (Without Cutting Out Your Favorite Foods) to learn how it’s possible!