Hooray for New Beginnings!
Funny how a new page on the calendar can inspire such optimism with such a fresh outlook… I’m all for it. Capricorn (the Winter sign) rests at the peak of the Zodiac. In other words, this is a pinnacle turning-of-the- wheel. We look back at our accomplishments and blessings from last year and, also, consider our goals for the year ahead. I’ve been scribbling notes to myself all day. Thoughts with broad strokes. This is the moment to “Think Big.” “If you can dream it, you can become it” -William Arthur Ward. Like the ball dropping at Times Square to welcome in 2016, let your dreams gather energy and momentum to become a reality. Grab the dream and write it down. Take the first step to make it real by committing it to paper. Tell your inner critic/skeptic to take the day off, and “Think Big.”
Then start with “Beginner’s Mind”- in small “baby steps”, the 5 pound weight. Remember what it was like to learn to ride a bike? You’d fall off, but you’d get back on. Mistakes were necessary to learn how to balance correctly. Stay childlike and curious. Applaud your small achievements…And stick with it. Research states- in 21 days a routine becomes a habit.
Ready, set, go. Write down your goals, but don’t flood yourself. Pick one. Maybe an easy one so you can build confidence.
Lastly, here’s a suggestion for the top of your list- cultivate a “can do” attitude. The belief or inner voice that says “can’t” is quite an obstacle. Notice it, ask it to take a back seat, and allow yourself to learn what you want to accomplish.
“The journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step.” -Lao Tzu
Happy New Year to everyone, everywhere.
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References:
Mindful Magazine. February 2016. How to Live a Mindful Life–“Be Confident and at Ease”-Elisha and Stephanie Goldstein.