This year, I have a resolution 'to try new things', or really, 'things I should be doing as a normal human who wants to connect with her community and society'.

In theory, I value spontaneity and planning things, but in reality - I also really value sitting on my couch with a glass of wine and my current TV obsession.

In January, I decided to say "yes", and open myself up to some different experiences. I saw one of my favorite comedians, I went to an orchestra concert, I decided to listen to music that was outside of my usual preferred genres, I crossed a few films off my list I had been wanting to watch even though I was skeptical of if I'd enjoy them.

I prioritized my writing and began a piece I had been putting off for months. I read through some books carrying weights of dust on my shelf. I listened to The Moth and laughed and cried over the art of storytelling.

And it wasn't until I was sitting in the darkness of the orchestra concert that I began to weep, overwhelmed with the realization that I was depriving myself. What had I been missing? I had been so busy trying to work, clean my place, exercise, and schedule dinner with so-and-so, that I had truly forgotten to feed my soul. I had become so stagnant in my ways, just trying to survive, that I wasn't putting in an effort to experience new art and the things that make life worth living.

Thankfully, it is never too late. I bought tickets to another orchestra concert without hesitation and have decided to replace many of my monotonous evenings with things that will re-energize me in different ways.

Don't get me wrong either, the nights where you unwind with your favorite show and beverage/snack of choice are necessary. Resting and taking care of yourself is a must. But so is challenging your mind and creating. I don't want to forget to feed my soul anymore.

Support local artists and heal yourself with stories. Because in the end, that is really how we can get through the day.