This New Year post is coming a bit late—about the same time that many New Year’s resolutions are petering out. I had a hard time getting started after the holidays and getting the flu. I was reminded that it is okay to start back slowly and not try to overdo when recovering. The following words of wisdom were helpful to me in getting back on target and I hope they do the same for you.
New Year-New You. A Seat at the Table Books in Elk Grove just posted a version of this phrase that I like better, “New Year. BE You.” Creating a “new you” implies that somehow you are not good enough. Too many of us try to create a persona that matches others’ expectations. Or that matches what we think we want to be, rather than who we really are.
I was recently inspired by a friend who posted that he takes time to thank the previous year for all the experiences as he looks back on what he has accomplished. There is not some magic line between December 31 and January 1 that changes your life. We can reset our lives any time we choose. But my coach reminded me today that there is a certain energy to a large number of people focusing on this one time to explore what went well in the previous year, what they want to give up, what they want to add, and what they want to refine or redefine. I’m all for riding a wave of energy, aren’t you?
One of my best recent lessons is that sometimes—maybe often—sadness or failure becomes the catalyst for great happiness. My dear brother, Frank, passed away suddenly at the beginning of 2022. I miss my friend and confidante but my depression led me to explore what I want to accomplish for the rest of my life. This year I have put together pieces that are creating a dream I didn’t even know I had. What a journey I am on!!
As we go through 2023 I hope you join me in tweaking the person we are and playing with creating the person we are meant to be. Be YOU! You are special, unique, and valuable!
