The beginning of a new year is filled with hope and promises of new possibilities, new creations, and a new you. It’s funny how we start each year looking in the mirror, trying to figure out what we need to change, tweak, add or subtract. Well, my question for you is, what’s wrong with the old you? We get so caught up in judging ourselves and our lives when the new year rolls around, but I want you to know that you are perfect just as you are, wherever you are in your life at this very moment.
Let’s take a minute, and instead of asking what needs to change, ask, “What do I have to be thankful for?” If you’re having trouble answering the question, the fact that you are able to read these words is enough to smile about. It means you are alive and breathing. Your eyes are working and you can see. It means you can read and comprehend the English language, which is no small feat (just ask anyone whose first language is not
English!). We don’t take enough time to say nice things about ourselves, to appreciate who we are and what we have. Sitting for a moment in a place of gratitude allows you to be kind to yourself and say,“You know what? I’m alright and my life is pretty good, too!”
Now, for all you Resolution Makers out there, I understand that the start of another year is the perfect opportunity to set goals and accomplish something new. I’m not trying to minimize that at all. But, there’s a wise saying that reads, “You can’t have what you want until you want what you have”. Also, contrary to popular belief, it’s not the goal(s) that’s important. What is important is the journey towards the goal. How you experience your journey is what will make all the difference in whether or not you actually reach your goal. My advice is, enjoy the journey. Have fun and fill it with as much love and passion as possible.
If your goal is to lose weight, begin by doing something physically fun, like dancing or taking walks or an exercise class with loved ones. Don’t stop eating the foods you love, as the celebrity-endorsed infomercials say. Find healthier ways to prepare them, and when you’re cooking, put on your favorite music or your favorite television show. Food tastes much better when it’s prepared in a stress-free and fun environment.
If your goal is to make more money, begin with something you love to do and find out how to make it profitable. Start by asking your friends and family what they would pay for your service or whatever it is you’re
selling. Go online and see what others are doing. The beauty of our world these days is that people will pay for practically anything. If a slice of toast with an image of Jesus on it can sell on Ebay, you can definitely make money with whatever brings you joy!
If your goal is to find that someone special, make a list of the traits you desire in that person. Next, make a list of the traits you love about yourself. Now look at the two lists. Are there traits on your potential mate’s list you would like to incorporate in your life? Are there traits on your list you would like your new mate to have? Make all necessary changes to your lists. Then put your lists in a drawer and allow those traits you love about yourself to shine through in all you do.
By doing all these things, you will attract the mate, the money and the new you. The loving, fun, positive energy
you put out into the world will make its way back to you in the form of what (and whom) you desire. And as you give thanks along the way, you will realize you are perfect just as you are and you have everything you need to live the life you want this year and the many years to come.