The Year I Choose Me: A Personal Manifesto + Goals
- Kenzie
- Jan 4
- 15 min read
Every new year brings a chance to reset, to rethink, and to refocus. But this year feels different. This year, I am not just setting resolutions or hoping for change. This year, I choose me. It’s a declaration, a commitment, and a promise to myself that I will prioritize my well-being, my identity, and my growth above all else. As a medical student navigating the demanding world of medicine, this choice feels both radical and necessary. I want to share this journey with you, like a big sister would, with honesty, vulnerability, and a fierce determination to charge forward unapologetically.
The Year of the Horse and Charging Forward
In the Chinese zodiac, this year is designated as the Year of the Horse. The horse is an emblematic creature that symbolizes not only strength and freedom, but also relentless energy and a spirited nature. In many ways, the horse represents the virtues of hard work, perseverance, and the ability to overcome obstacles with grace and determination. It serves as a powerful reminder to all of us to move forward with unwavering confidence and courage, embracing the challenges that life presents.
For me, this year invites a deeper reflection on what it truly means to embody the qualities associated with the horse. It encourages me to charge ahead with purpose, much like a horse galloping freely across an open field, unburdened by the constraints of fear or uncertainty. This year, I feel inspired to break free from the doubts that have held me back in the past, allowing myself to trust in my own pace and instincts. The horse’s inherent ability to navigate various terrains reminds me that it is essential to adapt to the circumstances around me while maintaining a clear sense of direction.
Moreover, the Year of the Horse also emphasizes the importance of community and social interaction. Horses are known to thrive in herds, and this aspect encourages us to seek connections with others, to collaborate, and to share our journeys. It’s a time to uplift and support one another, recognizing that together we can achieve much more than we can alone. As I embrace the spirit of the horse, I am reminded of the value of teamwork and the strength that comes from unity.
In essence, this year challenges me to harness the energy of the horse, to gallop forward with determination, and to embrace the freedom that comes from pursuing my dreams with vigor. It’s a call to action, urging me to step out of my comfort zone and take bold strides toward my aspirations, all while remaining grounded in the knowledge that I have the strength to navigate whatever lies ahead. The Year of the Horse is not just a representation of a zodiac sign; it is an invitation to live life with passion, purpose, and an unyielding spirit.
Medical school is intense. The hours are long, the pressure is high, and the expectations can feel overwhelming. But the horse teaches me that I don’t have to be perfect or fast to succeed. I just need to keep moving forward, steady and strong, with my own unique rhythm. This year, I am choosing to embody that spirit, to be unapologetically myself even when the world expects me to fit a mold.
Why Choosing Me Matters
Choosing me is not selfish; rather, it is an essential act of self-care and self-respect. It signifies the importance of establishing clear boundaries that effectively protect my energy and mental health from external pressures and demands that can be overwhelming. This conscious decision to prioritize my own well-being entails saying no to commitments, activities, or relationships that do not align with my personal goals or core values. It is a powerful acknowledgment that my time and energy are finite resources, and I must allocate them wisely to foster growth and fulfillment in my life.
Moreover, this choice reflects a deep understanding that my worth is not contingent upon the quantity of tasks I accomplish or the level of my performance in various aspects of life. Instead, it is rooted in the intrinsic value of who I am at my core—a unique individual with thoughts, feelings, and aspirations that deserve recognition and respect. By choosing myself, I embrace the idea that I am enough, just as I am, and that my identity is not defined by the roles I play or the accolades I receive.
In this journey of self-discovery and empowerment, I also recognize that prioritizing my needs can inspire others to do the same. It sets a precedent that encourages healthy relationships built on mutual respect and understanding. When I choose to honor my own needs, I create a space where others can feel empowered to voice their own desires and boundaries, fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
Ultimately, choosing me is a commitment to living authentically and intentionally, allowing me to cultivate a life that is aligned with my true self. It is a declaration that I am worthy of love, joy, and peace, and that I have the right to pursue a path that resonates with my deepest values and aspirations. In doing so, I not only enhance my own life but also contribute positively to the lives of those around me, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and self-acceptance.
In medical school, it’s all too common to find oneself engulfed in the relentless cycle of studying, preparing for exams, and navigating the complexities of everything all at once. The rigorous demands of this journey can often overshadow the individual, leading to a sense of lost identity amid the pressures of academic excellence and professional development. However, I am determined to hold onto my identity beyond the confines of the white coat that symbolizes my future in medicine. I want to actively nurture and embrace my femininity, my creativity, and my diverse passions that exist outside the realm of medicine. This means allowing myself the space to explore and cultivate interests that bring me joy and fulfillment, whether they be artistic endeavors, engaging in community service, or pursuing hobbies that inspire me. Choosing me means recognizing and honoring all parts of who I am, not just the student or the future doctor that I am training to become. It involves acknowledging the importance of balance in life and the necessity of self-care, enabling me to become not only a competent physician but also a well-rounded individual. By embracing my multifaceted identity, I can bring a unique perspective to my practice, one that values empathy, creativity, and a holistic approach to patient care, ultimately enriching both my personal life and my professional journey.
Boundaries Are My Backbone
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned throughout my journey of personal development and self-discovery is that boundaries are not walls; they are bridges that lead to self-respect and a sense of balance in my life. This realization came to me after experiencing the overwhelming consequences of neglecting my own needs and limits. Without establishing clear boundaries, I found myself at risk of burnout, grappling with feelings of resentment towards others, and ultimately losing sight of my personal goals and aspirations. The absence of boundaries created a chaotic environment where I felt constantly pulled in multiple directions, leading to stress and anxiety.
Setting clear limits on my time and energy has proven to be an essential practice that allows me to focus on what truly matters in my life. By defining what is acceptable and what is not, I create a framework that protects my mental and emotional well-being. This practice enables me to prioritize my commitments and relationships, ensuring that I invest my resources in areas that align with my values and long-term objectives. For instance, when I say "no" to requests that do not serve my interests or well-being, I am not closing myself off from others; instead, I am opening up space for the opportunities and connections that genuinely enrich my life.
Moreover, establishing boundaries fosters healthier relationships with others. It communicates to them that I value my time and energy, which in turn encourages them to respect my limits. This mutual respect lays the foundation for more meaningful interactions, as both parties understand the importance of giving and receiving space. As I continue to practice setting boundaries, I have noticed a significant decrease in feelings of overwhelm and an increase in my overall satisfaction with my life. I have learned to appreciate the power of saying "no" when necessary, allowing me to say "yes" to the things that truly bring me joy and fulfillment.
The journey of learning to set boundaries is ongoing, and it requires continuous reflection and adjustment. However, the benefits are undeniable. By embracing boundaries as bridges rather than walls, I cultivate a life that is not only more balanced but also more aligned with my true self. This shift in perspective has empowered me to reclaim my time, energy, and ultimately, my happiness. As I move forward, I remain committed to honoring my boundaries, recognizing that they are essential tools for maintaining my well-being and achieving my goals.
Boundaries also play a crucial role in helping me protect my femininity in a demanding environment, where the pressures and expectations can often feel overwhelming. I choose to express myself through my unique style, which serves as a powerful extension of who I am. My clothing choices are not merely about fashion; they reflect my personality, my values, and my creative spirit. Each outfit I select is a deliberate expression of my individuality, allowing me to showcase my femininity in a way that feels authentic to me.
Furthermore, my mindset plays a significant role in this journey of self-expression and boundary-setting. I consciously choose to adopt a positive and resilient outlook, one that celebrates my femininity rather than diminishes it in the face of external pressures. This mindset is not just a passive state of being; it is an active choice that fuels my confidence and determination. I remind myself that embracing my femininity is not a distraction from my studies or ambitions, but rather a source of strength that enhances my capabilities and enriches my experiences. In this way, my boundaries serve as a protective barrier, allowing me to thrive as a woman in a demanding environment while remaining true to myself.
Consistency Comes From Knowing Who I Am
Consistency is often talked about as a key to success, but it’s more than just discipline or routine. It is an intricate tapestry woven from various threads of personal values, beliefs, and identity. To truly understand the essence of consistency, we must delve deeper into its foundations. For me, consistency grows from a strong sense of identity, which acts as a guiding compass in my life. When I have a clear understanding of who I am, what I value, and what I stand for, I find that it becomes significantly easier to show up every day with intention and purpose.
This sense of identity is not merely a static label but a dynamic and evolving understanding of oneself that encompasses various aspects of life, including personal aspirations, core values, and even the relationships I cultivate. It is through this self-awareness that I can align my daily actions with my long-term goals. For instance, if I identify myself as a lifelong learner, I am more likely to dedicate time each day to reading, studying, or engaging in discussions that challenge my thinking. This alignment creates a natural rhythm in my life, where my actions consistently reflect my identity, thereby reinforcing my commitment to my goals.
Moreover, consistency is also about resilience. Life is filled with challenges and distractions that can easily derail our efforts. However, when my actions stem from a solid understanding of who I am, I am better equipped to navigate these obstacles. The clarity that comes from a well-defined identity allows me to remain steadfast in my pursuits, even when faced with setbacks. Instead of viewing failures as insurmountable barriers, I can see them as opportunities for growth and learning, which further strengthens my resolve to maintain consistency in my efforts.
Additionally, consistency fosters trust and reliability, both in myself and in the eyes of others. When I consistently act in alignment with my values and beliefs, I build a reputation for being dependable and authentic. This not only enhances my self-esteem but also encourages others to engage with me more openly and honestly. Relationships, whether personal or professional, thrive on this mutual trust, and this can lead to collaborative successes that further reinforce the importance of consistency in my life.
While discipline and routine are certainly important components of achieving consistency, they are significantly enhanced when rooted in a strong sense of identity. It is through this deeper understanding of who I am and what I stand for that I can approach each day with intention, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to my goals. Therefore, as I continue on my journey, I recognize that nurturing my identity is not just beneficial but essential for cultivating the consistency that drives success.
This year, I am focusing on building habits that align with my values. That means prioritizing sleep, nourishing my body, and dedicating time to study, just exist, and relax without guilt. It means celebrating small wins and forgiving myself when things don’t go perfectly.
By rooting my actions in my personal goals and growth, I create a sustainable path forward. This approach keeps me motivated and resilient, even when the workload feels overwhelming.
Rest Is Not a Luxury, It’s a Requirement
Rest has always been undervalued in medical culture, often seen as a luxury rather than a necessity. The prevailing notion that we must push through exhaustion to demonstrate our dedication and commitment to our work is not only misguided but also detrimental to our overall health and effectiveness. This mindset can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and a host of physical and mental health issues. As I navigate my own journey in the medical field, I am gradually learning to recognize and appreciate rest as an essential component of my success and well-being. The culture of overwork is deeply ingrained in many professions, particularly in healthcare, where long hours and relentless schedules are often glorified. This can create an environment where taking time to rest is viewed as a sign of weakness or lack of ambition. However, numerous studies have shown that adequate rest and recovery are crucial for maintaining high levels of performance, enhancing cognitive function, and fostering resilience.
By prioritizing rest, I am beginning to understand that it is not merely a break from work, but rather a strategic investment in my health and capabilities. Quality rest allows for mental clarity, improved decision-making, and better patient interactions. Furthermore, embracing a balanced approach that includes regular periods of rest can lead to greater creativity and innovation in problem-solving, which is essential in the fast-paced world of medicine. In my personal experience, I have started to implement practices that promote restorative rest, such as setting boundaries around my working hours, engaging in mindfulness and relaxation techniques, and ensuring I allocate time for hobbies and social interactions. These changes have not only enhanced my physical and emotional well-being but have also positively impacted my professional performance.
Choosing rest also means actively engaging in the practice of listening to my body and emotions without judgment, which is essential for my overall well-being. This involves tuning in to the subtle signals that my body sends me, such as fatigue, tension, or a sense of overwhelm. It requires a mindful approach where I acknowledge these feelings rather than suppress them or push through despite their presence. Recognizing when I need a break is not merely about acknowledging physical exhaustion; it encompasses emotional and mental fatigue as well. It is about understanding that my mental health is just as important as my physical health and that both require attention and care.
Giving myself permission to take a break, whether it is a short pause during a busy day, a day off from work, or even a longer period of time dedicated to rest, is a crucial aspect of this process. It means allowing myself to step away from responsibilities and expectations, and instead prioritizing my own needs. This practice can feel challenging in a society that often glorifies busyness and productivity, however, it is through this act of self-compassion that I cultivate a deeper relationship with myself, fostering a sense of worthiness and acceptance. Moreover, this practice is a radical act of self-love, as it challenges the ingrained beliefs that I must always be active, always be achieving, and that rest is a luxury rather than a necessity. By embracing rest, I am making a powerful statement to myself that my well-being is paramount. This shift in perspective not only benefits me in the present moment but also lays a solid foundation for sustainable growth in the long run. When I take the time to rest, I recharge my energy, enhance my creativity, and improve my focus, all of which contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Ultimately, recognizing the value of rest is a transformative shift that can lead to a healthier, more sustainable approach to work in the medical field, and it is a testament to my strength and resilience. It is essential to advocate for a culture that respects and prioritizes rest, as this will benefit not only individual practitioners but also the healthcare system as a whole. It is a commitment to nurturing the body and mind, ensuring that I can show up fully in all areas of my life. In this way, rest becomes a vital part of my journey toward personal development, allowing me to thrive rather than merely survive. By fostering an environment that encourages adequate rest, we can improve the quality of care we provide to our patients and ensure that we are operating at our best.
Balancing Medical School and Femininity
Being a woman in STEM and medicine presents a distinctive set of challenges and opportunities that are often intertwined. The landscape of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as the field of medicine, has historically been male-dominated, which can create obstacles for women striving to make their mark in these areas. However, these challenges also pave the way for significant opportunities to inspire change, foster diversity, and contribute to a more inclusive environment. I want to embrace my femininity as a source of power, not a contradiction to my ambition; rather, I see it as a vital aspect of my identity that can enhance my contributions to the field. This year, I am committed to blending my identity as a medical student with my personal style, interests, and values, as I believe that authenticity can empower not only myself but also those around me.
This journey involves recognizing the strength that comes from being a woman in a rigorous academic and professional setting. It means challenging societal norms that often suggest that femininity and ambition cannot coexist. Instead, I aim to showcase that my passion for medicine can be expressed through my unique sense of style, my interests outside of academics, and the values I hold dear. By integrating these elements, I hope to create a holistic representation of what it means to be a woman in medicine today.
I aspire to connect with other women in STEM and medicine, sharing experiences and supporting one another in navigating the complexities of our careers. Building a network of like-minded individuals can amplify our voices and create a stronger presence in our respective fields. I believe that by sharing stories, challenges, and successes, we can inspire future generations of women to pursue their dreams in STEM and medicine, armed with the knowledge that they can be true to themselves while excelling in their careers.
Throughout this year, I will actively seek out opportunities to participate in discussions, workshops, and mentorship programs that celebrate diversity and encourage women to embrace their identities. I want to highlight the importance of representation in medicine and advocate for policies and practices that support women’s advancement in the field. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a culture that values individuality and recognizes that diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes in healthcare and scientific research.
Ultimately, my commitment to blending my identity with my professional aspirations is not just about personal growth; it is about paving the way for a more equitable future in STEM and medicine. I envision a world where women can thrive without compromising their authenticity, where our unique experiences and insights are celebrated as integral to the advancement of knowledge and patient care. Through this journey, I aim to inspire others to embrace their femininity, recognizing it as a powerful asset that can drive innovation and change in the world of science and medicine.
This might mean wearing a favorite lipstick before a long day or carving out time for creative hobbies on weekends. It means surrounding myself with supportive people who celebrate all aspects of me. It means rejecting the idea that I have to sacrifice my femininity to succeed in a male-dominated field.
By choosing me, I choose to be whole and authentic, both in and out of the medical setting.
Setting Personal Goals That Reflect My True Self
Personal goals are more than checklists or achievements. They are reflections of who I want to become. This year, my goals focus on growth in all areas: academic, emotional, physical, and spiritual.
Some of my personal goals include:
Developing a consistent study routine that respects my need for breaks
Practicing mindfulness to manage stress and stay present
Maintaining regular exercise to support my energy and health
Cultivating meaningful relationships that nourish my soul
Exploring creative outlets that express my femininity and joy
These goals are flexible and compassionate. They remind me that progress is not linear and that choosing me means honoring my journey, not just the destination.
A Big-Sister Talk: Embracing Vulnerability and Strength
If I could speak to my younger self or any woman starting medical school, I would say this: It’s okay to be vulnerable. It’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to rest. Choosing you is the bravest thing you can do.
We often feel pressure to be perfect, to hide our struggles, and to keep pushing no matter what. But true strength comes from knowing when to pause and how to protect your heart. This year, I am learning to be gentle with myself while charging forward like the horse I want to be.
Choosing me means I am worthy of love, respect, and care. It means I am enough just as I am.
This year is not just about surviving medical school or ticking off goals. It’s about thriving as a whole person. It’s about choosing me every day, in every decision, in every moment. The Year of the Horse reminds me to move forward with courage and grace, to set boundaries that protect my spirit, and to honor my identity with consistency and rest.
If you are reading this and feeling the weight of your own challenges, know that you are not alone. Choosing you is the most powerful step you can take. Let’s charge forward together, unapologetically and with open hearts.
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