Ah…we meet again, New Year.
How do you feel about beginning a new year?
Many people struggle with the idea that things can change, that this year could be better than the last, that this year won’t be just as disappointing or difficult as the last one.
Others see the new year as fresh, full of possibilities, a chance to do all (or at least some of) the things they didn’t get to do last year.
Several people begin “new” things as we begin a new year. There are the ever popular choices such as going to the gym, changing eating habits, beginning a new hobby, goal-setting, and general “self improvement.”
If you’re feeling a nudge toward “new,” what’s your reason for wanting to do these “new” things? Where did the idea for the “new” thing(s) come from? Bear with me for a moment…did the idea come from a conversation with a friend about the new thing he or she is beginning this year? Did the idea for the “new” thing you want to do come from someone else’s social media feed? No, I don’t think social media is the root of all evil. I think some pretty great and creative ideas come from social media content. But perusing social media can also bring on feelings of shame, lack of self worth, and a general sense of “I’m not measuring up.”
Which is why I’m asking, what’s your reason? What’s your motivation? Why are you wanting to start a “new” thing? What’s right for “that” person doesn’t mean the same thing is “right” for you. Be mindful that you're not falling into comparison. Rather, take time to think about what inspires you.
What lights you up inside? What brings you life? What brings you joy?
Find ways to pursue those things. Invite the people in your life who see you clearly to join you in a conversation about these new ideas and what it could look like to make one or two a part of your routine. Inviting others to offer their perspectives can feel a little scary (vulnerable), but you could also gain a way of seeing yourself and your life in a way you’re not able to on your own.
What drains you? What leaves you feeling empty?
Again just because someone you follow on social media has picked up a new habit or routine doesn’t mean it’s right for you, too. Keep an open mind. Take stock of what you know about you; don’t dismiss the things you’re already aware of about yourself, your interests, your energy level, your patterns of thought and behavior.
Be willing to try something new, and if after a while you realize it’s more draining than life-giving, change it up. Just because you try a new thing doesn’t mean you need to lock yourself into it. This is not, however, an excuse to give up on all good - but challenging - things! Sometimes pushing through the initial stages of “uncomfortable” is the only way to get to the good part of the new thing.
Doing something new simply because it’s a new year isn’t a good enough reason. Doing something new simply because someone you know is doing it isn’t a good enough reason either. You’re the only you there is. Take some time to consider what might be best for you as you begin this new year. Invite those who care about you and who see you clearly to weigh in. Invite God into a conversation about what he has for you this year.
If you choose to engage with new things that are rooted in inspiration rather than comparison, I think you’ll find the new things more enjoyable, more sustainable, and more life-giving.
Not sure how or where to begin? I’d love to talk with you! Send me an email or schedule some one-on-one time with me. And consider subscribing to my blog where I post lots of helpful suggestions on how you can begin (and continue) this journey of recovering your blueprint!
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