Starting Fresh!

Remember, as a young person, we had “do overs” ? We got to restart our turn on a board game, try again to make the basket, or almost anything we wanted to try again. Restarting can be so fun and a good way to practice. If you are working on becoming a better you everyday is a do over. You are getting better and better each day!

We are getting a conceptually bigger fresh start by starting a new year. How many of us set resolutions only to not follow through then beat ourselves up because we failed again? This year try something new when you are trying something new. Set an intention for the year. This can be in the form of a word or a phrase for the year. One year, my word was gratitude. I wanted to be more aware of all of the blessing, luck and fortunate circumstances that befell me daily so I set the intention to be more grateful. I had access to lettered beads so I made a bracelet to remind me of my yearly intention. The results were subtle yet profound over time. Everyday I would put on my bracelet reminding me of my intentions and that was it. I didn’t nag myself to be grateful every moment. I didn’t scold or shame myself when I was less grateful, I just mentally rewarded myself when I felt grateful. Periodically throughout the year, I survey my overall feeling of gratitude towards my life circumstances, events and relationships. Each time my feelings of gratitude had improved. Another year, I found myself frustrated often, feeling powerless to change some things that I felt strongly needed to be different. I was tired of feeling angry and frustrated so I decided my word for the year would be acceptance. I decided to accept things for what they were. When I could change them I would but I did so from a more empowered mindset rather than an angry one. My efforts seemed to be more effective. Most importantly, I was not as angry.

This year, I am expanding to a phrase. My phrase is “. . . and we all will rise up.” from the Michael Franti and Spearhead song Once A Day. The notion of all of us becoming better, more peaceful, loving and kind versions of ourselves would be amazing. I know I can’t change others but I also know when I believe in myself and others and treat everyone with kindness we are all better for it.

What is your word or phrase for 2016?