For many, a decade is a long time to chase a goal. But motherhood became my anchor. The patience I learned while teaching my child to walk, the creativity required to explain complex ideas in simple terms, and the empathy I developed from listening to their little heartbreaks—all of these became tools I carried into other areas of my life. Whether I’m talking about pursuing a degree, launching a business, or starting a nonprofit, the skills I honed as a parent became the foundation for my 2021 success. By 2021, my journey had taken unexpected turns. The goal—whatever it was—became a metaphor for perseverance. Perhaps it was completing a personal project, earning recognition in my field, or finally saying “yes” to an opportunity that once felt out of reach. Whatever the target, it wasn’t about perfection; it was about growth.
A decade ago, in late 2011, my life changed forever. December 31, 2011, marked the end of a chapter and the beginning of a journey I never could have imagined—a pregnancy that would shape my identity, test my resilience, and ultimately guide me toward a meaningful goal in 2021. Today, as I reflect on this transformative decade, I’m filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the milestones achieved. In late 2011, I was navigating the whirlwind of early pregnancy. The excitement of impending motherhood was bittersweet. Every stretch mark, flutter of movement, and sleepless night was a reminder that life was changing in permanent ways. Back then, my days revolved around prenatal vitamins, baby showers, and endless preparation for a child’s arrival. Yet, amid the joy, I also felt the weight of uncertainty—about my ability to balance motherhood with my aspirations, about career paths, and about becoming the parent I hoped to be. Shanie Love - Pregnant -2011-12-31- Target -2021-
Possible structure: Start with the setting in 2011, the excitement or anxiety of impending pregnancy, the changes in life during those years, then the reflection on how the experiences led to the 2021 goal. Maybe include lessons learned from motherhood that helped reach that goal. Use a heartfelt, personal tone, maybe include anecdotes or specific moments to make it relatable. For many, a decade is a long time to chase a goal
Here’s to the next decade—whatever it holds—and to embracing the journey with open arms. Whether I’m talking about pursuing a degree, launching