I love this time of year. It’s fresh with possibilities. We have a clean slate. We can change or tweak many aspects of our lives. It’s a great time to reflect on what we want to do, be or have. One of the best things you can do is to start by counting your blessings. So, if you haven’t yet done so, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the past year. Write down what you are grateful for: being alive, health, family, friends, home, work, freedom . . . . . . You get the idea. If you have had sadness, trauma, or negativity in your life this past year, this step is even more important. Gratitude will help you move forward in life and helps heal residual pain.

Next, identify areas of your life you want to be better or different. The word “resolution” when broken down is “re-solution”. It implies that there are solutions to challenges we might have. And the solutions usually lie within us. That can be empowering. We can change.

So, start with 1-3 areas you want to improve. More than that can be overwhelming. Write down what you want. Be specific and positive. Maybe you want to work on your health or relationships or spirituality. You might just want to be more positive or happier. It really helps if you write down your goal. In fact, write it down and put it in numerous places: your bathroom mirror, your computer, wallet, and your closet door. The idea is to remind yourself repeatedly during the day of what you want. It helps to read it, write it, and say it out loud, every day, stimulating all senses. You also need to list the action steps you will take to make this goal a reality.

If you want to be more mindful, maybe you want to find some books, download an App, or connect with a group. If it’s health and nutrition, start with eating a salad every day and walking, join a gym, getting regular adjustments. If you want to be happier, find someone to help. Goals do not have to be huge. In fact, I am a big believer in the “1% Rule”. If you improve only 1% per day in just one area, in 90 days will have improved 90%. And that is a phenomenal accomplishment. Most of us do best with baby steps.

And many great goals involve letting go of things. One of our practice members told me his goal is to work less in 2024. He wants less stress, more time for himself and his family. Do you have enough play time in your life? We all need that. At the end of the day, check in with yourself and see how you are doing. If you fall short, remember, tomorrow is a new day. Do not beat yourself up, just start again.

What do you want for yourself in the New Year? If you want something to be different, you will need to think and act differently. It’s going to be a great year where all things are possible. You really can have what you want in 2024!