As 2020 sets in, I’m reflecting back on the last 10 years: graduation, first jobs, first boyfriends, the onset of my anxiety… so many things. Who would have thought someone could pack in so much life in just 10 years? I hope my next 10 will be filled with happiness, joy, health and adventure. Here are just some things I’m looking forward to in the new decade:
Career success. I’m most nervous about this one, but I’ve always worked hard in school and if I set my mind to something, I tend to do well. I hope that is the case here in my first few jobs.
Fitness, consistently. I’ve always been involved with sports at a high level, whether that was soccer, basketball or swimming. Now that I’ve graduated, I hope to continue that momentum, especially for the community and relief from anxiety it provides. 
More learning and living. I hope that my anxiety won’t stop me from taking risks and learning new skills, no matter what social phobia I still may be experiencing.
Telling friends and family how much I love them. Life is too short.
New friends, new me. As the saying goes, you are the 5 people you surround yourself with. I hope that I can develop strong friendships through my new jobs and beyond to help me become a better person and to offer the same support I receive in return.
Getting a better grip of my tech life. Fewer concerns about social media, more real interactions offline.
Less anxiety, period. I’ve heard that with age, worries calm and we become more down to earth. Perhaps I’m making that one up. But I hope it’s true for me.
More sleep! Now that college days are over- and college parties- I hope I can take better care of myself through more sleep. I really underestimated how much of a difference this makes.
Traveling to exotic places. As part of my risk-taking and adventure plans, I hope to travel the world alone and with friends.
Finding my spirituality. This has been one I’ve been confused about for a while, trying many things and never really finding my grove. I hope I can spend more time here and find myself.
I hope your next decade is filled with positivity, hope, and little anxiety!
By: Alicia Williams, Anxiety In Teens Contributor