It's the last day of 2019, and 2020 goals are set! I wanted to recap a few personal accomplishments from the previous 364 days. We often get caught up in the missteps of life and forget to celebrate our wins, so here's a recap of a few personal victories. Before the clock strikes 12 tonight, be sure to brag on yourself!
I started the year off working with the sub-debutantes of my chapter foundation's Debutante Cotillion. Sharing nine months with these young women was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had, and I am so glad I got the opportunity to participate on the 10th anniversary of my cotillion with the very same chapter. (Talk about life coming full-circle!)

After starting back at square one in a new graduate program in 2018, I finally made it to the finish line in May by completing my comprehensive exams and earning my Master of Science in Strategic Communications from Troy University. This journey began in 2016 when I initially enrolled at Georgia State University and hit a significant roadblock, which left me frustrated and no longer interested in receiving a degree from that program.

Full Transparency: I had to retake one of my final courses and did not receive my degree until July, but let me tell you all this - I bought myself some sense with that life lesson. Procrastination will not catch me slipping anymore.
Another pretty awesome moment for me is having full control of a marketing campaign featured on billboards within the city of Atlanta and the MARTA trains and buses. This campaign was successful because I have the support of my superiors and the creative backing of the out-of-home company we used.

I did a little a travel this year and made some new, lifelong friendships in the process, but a huge win this year was receiving a promotion with supervisory responsibilities. I have always been a part of the selection process for new staff members, but having the power to choose the person for a role and being their trusted advisor was a challenge only God could prepare me. We are team members, and I say that because we learn from each other daily. He is the complete opposite of me, but so very deserving the opportunity, and I can honestly say it has been nothing but love and laughs for my first leadership role.

That's the abbreviated story for my 2019. Here's to closing out the year on a high note! Grateful for the journey. No matter how it ends.
xo Mia Shantel