Take Time to Reflect as the New Year Begins

As the door to 2015 closes and the door to 2016 is opening wide, we can choose to look back, to look forward, or to do both. Some are already thinking of new goals, plans, and projects to accomplish and usually I'm right there with them. As I pondered what I would like to say to you on this last post of 2015, I realized I'm not yet ready to jump full-speed ahead into the New Year. Perhaps you, too, may not be quite ready for 2016.

A lot happens in the course of a year and it is important to take some time to reflect back on all of it. A lot of lessons came my way and I want to make sure I not only remember them, but continue to implement them in 2016. I want to ensure I align my activities with what my priorities are today. I don't want to drift back into the same old patterns out of habit.

Here are some of the lessons I've been shown this year:


Live in  the present moment. 

Honor what I'm feeling first.

Let myself off the hook.

I don't have to understand everything.

It's time to slow down. 

Balance activity with rest. 

I don't have to keep up with the world.  

God's got my back. 

Meditation is important. 

Accept people where they're at. 
 

In this world of over-achievers and perfectionism (myself included), our fast-paced lifestyle and urgent work ethic can take a huge toll on our health, our relationships, and our energy. Sometimes I think about retiring to Brazil where the national motto is "Relax!" They take time to enjoy the beaches, the sultry rhythms of the samba and the bossa nova, and having drinks with friends along the strip. No one is in a rush. 

If you're not ready to usher in the New Year, it's okay. Take your time. Reflect back on what made you smile and brought you joy in 2015. How can you bring more joy into your life in 2016? What made you stressed, upset, pressured? What can you change to be more resilient and have more peace? When we make time to reflect on our lives, we bring more awareness into the present moment and awareness is the first step to transforming our tomorrows. 

If you related to this post and would like to stay in touch, please enter your email address in the box provided. 

Until next time, I wish you a well-chosen New Year. May you soar on wings like eagles and shine like the noon day sun!

Ariel Paz