A New Year is a new opportunity.
WOW, we did it! You did it!
I get excited for the unexpected, not the bad stuff of course but the fun things in life. As a single mom for many years, got used to the unexpected. Yes, it could be an adventure. If anything something to learn.
As we step into the new year, let’s pause and reflect on the journey we’ve traveled in the previous year. It’s a moment to consider where our focus lies. Are we directing our energy toward the positive moments, or are we allowing the negatives to overshadow our perspective? Often we become lost in our misery, mistakes, and failures. Of course, this is not helpful or healing. Being mindful of our patterns of thinking is a positive change we can do ourselves.
Undeniably, life throws curveballs that are beyond our control. Sometimes a real shit storm of trauma, loss, breakups, disappoints, and other crap. Some we can control but sadly most we have no influence or control. This can be frustrating, heartbreaking and disappointing.
Bad things happen to good people—it’s an unfortunate truth. It sucks but it is the truth. Life’s fairness might seem questionable at times, but accepting this reality is a crucial step forward. Good people face challenges such as depression, loss, and trauma. Despite the hardships, dwelling on the unfairness only prolongs our misery.
Acknowledging the difference lies in how we cultivate resilience during tough times, in our darkest hours. A positive attitude serves as a foundation for this journey, and the beauty is, it’s never too late to adopt one. It begins with mindfulness—being aware of the thoughts that occupy our minds, particularly the critical and negative ones. Once we recognize the inner dialogue, we gain the power to change it. Shifting our focus towards the positive aspects of life, the small joys that bring us happiness and laughter initiate a gradual change in our mindset.
Perfection eludes us; mistakes are an inherent part of being human. In other words, we will inadvertently hurt others or say the wrong things. The key lies in the intent behind our actions. If we cause harm, a sincere apology, learning from the experience, and moving forward is crucial. Those who insist on holding us hostage to our past are, indeed, not worth keeping in our circle.
Our past is just that—past. We don’t reside there anymore. The lessons learned should accompany us, not the pain. Embracing a better future requires letting go. We cannot rewind time; we can only move ahead. Each of us views the past year through our unique life lenses, shaped by our perspectives, personalities, experiences, culture, religion, biases, and dreams.
Dreaming knows no expiration date. It’s never too late to dream, to continue dreaming, and to step out of our comfort zones. Life is a precious gift, and so are we. Let’s extract valuable lessons from our experiences, propelling us forward to embrace our dreams. Believe in the power of your voice and live your best life—because you deserve it.
As we all move forward in life it is important to reflect on the lessons we have learned over the last year and previous years. If we take the pain then we cannot move forward. Negative thinking, and clinging to past trauma, injustices, and resentments only keep us prisoners of the past. This is not a fun place to reside.
Seek out a professional if you are struggling, I did and it felt like emotional weights were being lifted, a new sense of freedom and self-forgiveness, acceptance, and self-compassion. Create your self-care tools and strategies to help you navigate moving forward, and keep you happy today and in the future.
Life is a gift and so are you. Never give up.
