How Will This Year Be Different?

The New Year is upon us whether we welcome it with open arms or not. It is a clean slate that is before us, just ready for us to create in any way we choose. It’s also the time of year when we typically make resolutions. We begin to think about what we want to do and the changes we would like to make as we forge ahead into another year.

I believe the ability to choose a new thought, create a new vision, or go after your dream lies within you. Every day brings new opportunities to create something new if you decide to put the drama of the past behind you; and move forward with action.  So really, the question we might want to ask ourselves is, how do I want this year to be different?

Sometimes just asking this question can feel overwhelming. The easiest way I found to help discover what you might want to change, is to ask yourself what in your life no longer works. If you find you have a long list, ask yourself what you have the power to change. Some things are just out of our hands but there are plenty of things that we can change. Here are some things to consider as you begin to create a new 2024.

Don’t dwell on the past: All too often when we look back, we do it with blame and judgment against ourselves for things we could have or should have done differently. If we see the same patterns repeating, we might lose hope that we can make a change for the better. Recognize this as a cycle of negativity that keeps you stuck and unable to move forward. I think it is important to look back, but what if we embraced this reflection as a learning experience? We can learn from our past and build on our strengths. I call this building on your successes.

Build on your successes: In sports, you will often hear the commentary from the coaches on how they need to be able to string together a series of positive plays, that will result in a win. That not only works in sports but also life. We can make small positive steps consistently as we build skills and habits that push us toward what we want to achieve.

Be willing to be flexible: The path to our goals is not a straight one. It is often filled with twists and turns. I am not telling you anything new, however, when we have a setback, we forget that we know that change can be hard. Sports teams watch videos of previous games to understand what needs to be done differently. Doing this kind of inquiry for ourselves helps us to grow and learn about ourselves so we can move forward rather than engage in self-ridicule for what we should have done differently.

Be willing to change your perspective: The perspective you hold can change you, simply by choosing another way to think about something.  Since our actions are a direct result of our thoughts you can see how important it is to hold perspectives that will enhance your well-being and help you make the changes you want.  You can change your actions by simply having a strong will, but usually, that is not enough to sustain them long-term. Since action stems from your belief and your perspective, it is important to identify what you believe and what the story is that you have been telling yourself about that belief; Often it has more to do with the feelings you hold about yourself. I'm too old or too busy, maybe it is when I get more money this will work out…I think almost everyone can identify with one of these storylines. These thoughts make a hostage out of all of us.

Dare to dream: The things we want to change are made up of things that make us uncomfortable or perhaps believe we can’t change. Listen to yourself with kindness and compassion, dare to challenge old beliefs, and decide to make new choices that allow new perspectives to emerge. Spark your curiosity by asking questions the what-if questions.  What if…I was not afraid sad or frustrated. What if I really could do that?  What if I felt good enough or smart enough? 

What are you willing to do? 

The final part of change involves putting the information you have learned into action. What are you committed to changing this year? What will pique your curiosity? What small steps will I take this year? Do I need to ask for help to move forward?

Slowing down and discerning what you want in your life is a powerful process on its own. Once you become aware of the thoughts, actions, and beliefs that have prevented you from making the desired changes, you are empowering yourself. And with gentle and loving inquiry your perspective will shift and you will begin to notice your actions are fueled by this new outlook. Remember that personal growth is a  journey, not a destination.

If this sounds exciting and scary all at the same time you are on the right path. There is risk involved as well as courage and a great love for yourself when you decide that you want something different. It does not matter if it is something big or small if it is beneficial to you. Be kind and gentle with yourself as you begin another year.