I find the days between Christmas and New Years to be a time of important reflection. A new year is a gift. Whatever the challenges of the present (past) year were, there is a new year starting and we have opportunities for renewal, new hope and even new practices.
I would encourage you to take stock of the past year during these days. What do you have to be thankful for? What do you wish had been different? Are there things or people you need to leave behind for your own health and well being? Are there things that need to be different and what can you do about it?
The last question is an important one. New beginnings can be a perfect time for new practices. None of us can do everything at once so think about the two or three things that you believe should be different in your life. Be specific about what you want to change.
Change does not happen without weaving new practices into our lives. Habits are formed by repeatedly practicing something over and over. Think about how you can incorporate needed changes for three months. At the end of three months if you are consistent, those changes are likely to have become habits and fairly easy to stay current with. Practices become habits which become part of our lifestyle! Change can look daunting but if you can think of the next three months, the longer term is likely to take care of itself.
If you keep a journal, keep track of your daily progress for three months. If you don't keep a journal this is a good reason to start one. A daily reminder of the commitment made will go a long ways toward your success.
Don't let this season pass without evaluating your current life. One, two or three significant changes can change the trajectory of your life. The new year is a great time to start. The past is past. Now for the new!
