Redefining Love in 2024
As we enter 2024, reflecting on the past year, it’s easy to hone in on the aspects of our lives that have yet to unfold according to plan. For some, the desire for a romantic commitment weighs heavy, creating an unspoken pressure to conform to societal timelines and expectations.
If you find yourself in a space where an engagement ring still feels like a distant dream, take heart; 2024 might just be your year for deep self-discovery, empowerment, and genuine love—both for yourself and those around you. And wouldn’t you know that so often the things we need the most tend to find us when we’re busy ruminating on something else?
Look Inward, Seek Clarity
The journey to love starts with understanding and embracing your own story. Take some time to quiet the external noise (hello, social media) and look inward. What are your expectations, desires, and goals? What is your why behind each? What are your non-negotiables in a loving and supportive partner, and who do you want to be in return to attract the love you seek?
When no one else is telling you what to think and feel, what surfaces? Write down whatever comes up so you can reflect on it over time. This is your opportunity to rediscover the core of who you are and what fulfillment looks like for you.
Define Love More Broadly
In a world that often romanticizes the grandeur of romantic love, dare to redefine the concept. Love isn't reserved only for a certain relationship status. Adopt a broader definition that embraces deep friendships, self-care, and joy found in non-romantic connections. It’s natural to yearn for romantic love, yes, but what changes when you take time to appreciate and nurture the richness of love already all around you?
Romanticize Your Life
I challenge you to replace the hours spent scrolling on social media, consuming the romanticized lives of strangers, with the habit of romanticizing your own life. Find the beauty in the city you’re planted in right now. The bustling streets, quiet pockets, laughter witnessed through restaurant windows, and local business owners that make it feel like home.
Get dressed up, borrow some lux diamonds just because you can, and take yourself out to dinner. Photograph the seemingly mundane details that make you smile, journal to remember them, choose silliness when your soul lacks levity, and rest when your body begs for a slowdown. Romanticize the season of life you’re in before the turning of your next chapter passes you by.
You’re writing your story with every passing day and only you can create a narrative that celebrates the small moments that come together to make up the big moments of your life. Don’t miss out on them while searching for what’s next.
Embrace the Journey of Self-Discovery
Remember that your worth is not determined by your relationship status. Take time to discover the strengths, passions, and quirks that make you uniquely you. When did society decide that diamonds are solely meant to be gifted as a symbol of worth? Celebrate your growth and accomplishments by buying yourself your own damn ring. You deserve it— because the most profound love really does begin with self-love.
This year, may your narrative be one of empowerment, self-care, and genuine connection. My hope is that the love you seek, whatever it looks like, finds and fulfills you in ways you could never have imagined. Never be afraid to ask for what you want and never settle for less than what you deserve. Believe that it is out there waiting for you to truly be ready.
Here's to making 2024 the year you take back your power, redefine love on your terms, and welcome in a love that transcends expectations.
And for those of you who are newly engaged or planning a wedding, may the same ring true to you as you move forward into this beautiful new season of life!