I wrote this on New Year’s Eve…still early enough in the year to do this exercise….
It is New Year's Eve and the countdown is on. This one in particular seems to be holding a lot of weight...it introduces a new decade! So exciting. I love this time of year. Rather than making resolutions, I prefer to take some time to reflect on the year that was. The highs, lows, successes and failures. All of it. This is what informs the creation of my vision for the next year. Choices. I have a good feeling about 2020.
How about you? Do you have a special way to mark the end of the year? Do you have a ritual for planning the next year?
New beginnings, cleaning the slate, starting over...just a few of the ways some people refer to a New Year. While cleaning the slate and "starting fresh" may sound attractive I like to look at the end of the year and the approaching New Year in a way that encompasses what is already there and where the gaps are for me.
I'd like to offer this quick practice that I have been doing over the last several years, it doesn't take a lot of time and you may be surprised by what pops up for you. The key here is to let what bubbles up be the answer, no second guessing... trust your brain! Then get curious after. Feel free to grab a piece of paper and something to write with if you wish.
What do I want to leave behind?
What better time than the end of a year/decade to ask yourself this question? We carry so many things with us year over year maybe it is time to leave behind the excuses that are keeping you stuck in a holding pattern. Perhaps it is a relationship you have outgrown, a habit or feeling that you are done with or even a tangible "thing"? Just notice what comes to mind for you.
What do I want to keep?
I am guessing that there are many things you may want to keep. While setting new goals is always exciting, it is important to remember what you already have that is pretty great. Relationships, health, friendships, work, useful practices that you do etc. or maybe a new relationship (friend, partner, business associate etc.) or a new habit that you started in 2019 that has been useful for you.
What do I want to add or have more of in 2020?
While "adding" always sounds good, you may already have some things in your life that you just want more of - family and friend time; "me" time. Or maybe you want to start a new thing? Maybe it is about having more choices in a current situation. Whatever surfaces for you, take note.
This will be the fourth year that I do this exercise and I am always intrigued by what comes up for me. Gives me food for thought - which is the point, by the way....to get you thinking. No matter what surfaces for you, I do hope that it is useful and maybe even enlightening.
