Reflections and Resolutions

The new year has just begun and it's time for the tradition of activating all of the resolutions that were just mere thoughts in our heads from the night before. Now that the first day of the year has almost passed, a thought may have crossed our minds... "just what was I thinking last night?"... and "it won't hurt if I start tomorrow, or next Monday, right?"...

I can identify with these types of thoughts because the idea of change is so daunting. It's so uncomfortable. So unnerving.... At least that's what we may tend to dwell on, right? I mean it's easy to focus on all of the things that are "wrong" in our lives and all of the things we want to CHANGE. We want to be more educated, more talented, more athletic, and less lazy, eat less junk food, and be less messy. Whatever change it is that we have in mind it is DIFFERENT from our norm and that is what makes it so difficult to adjust to.

To reiterate, it seems to be the VOIDS that we tend to focus on when we make these resolutions. We might be comparing our lives to fictional characters, idolized celebrities, or some sort of idealized version of ourselves. The truth of the matter is though that we cannot change without first taking the moment to reflect and realize all of the GOOD that fills our lives. The new year isn't supposed to be about punishing ourselves for not being that concept in our head. The new year should really be just another chance to recharge and take a step beyond those good intentions. Think about the ACTION instead of the pain. Think about what effect your actions can have. 

So I give you permission to rethink your resolutions. Take a good look in the mirror, and maybe grab a pad of paper. I want you to write down 10 things you are grateful for and 10 things that you LIKE about yourself. Once you have done that, then you will be more open-minded to the opportunity for challenge. Yes - I say challenge because we as humans are designed to think in terms of a competition or make things into a game. Once you change your mindset and no longer look at your resolution as a chore or a punishment and look at it as a challenge - that is when you will find success. Success comes because you cannot spell CHALLENGE without CHANGE.

So whether your resolution be to get in better shape, read more books, do more good deeds, or travel the world, find the challenge and excitement that pushes you to seek more. Look at yourself with love and appreciation and you will not be disappointed. Be challenged and be changed and enjoy 2016 to the fullest of your capability.