The New Year is a time for new beginnings!
As we approach the New Year, I’d first like to say, I am not an advocate of “New Year’s Resolutions.” I believe that leaving something as just a resolution is the reason many people fail in their efforts by February or March of each year. Although making a resolution is a small part of an effective goal plan. To set your resolve means to express your opinion or determining a course of action. That is the first step in reaching your goals. Decide what it is you want to change or accomplish, but there are many more steps that you may need to take to reach the destination that you are going for.
First- set that goal and set your intention set measurable goals, set a timeline.
Then spend some time thinking about WHY you want to accomplish that goal. If weight loss is your goal (or to stop smoking, drink less, love more, stress relief, financial responsibility, etc.), write down your reasons for changing. Is it to look better, feel better, better health, to see your children or grandchildren grow up, to improve your relationship, to increase your joy, to be better able to care for others. Why is making the change important to you?
Next- let go of the past. Forgiveness of self and others, moving forward to the new you and your new life are the only way to leave old patterns in the dust. Whether it is a pattern of always driving through McDonalds, dating the “wrong” people, wallowing in self-pity, chronic poverty or living paycheck to paycheck- stop telling yourself that is your story. Envision what you want your life to look like, not what you don’t want. Let go of resentment and fear. Our own minds and the stories we tell ourselves are what hold us back, more so than our situation and certainly more than anyone else.
Think about how you will overcome barriers. Realize struggle is part of the journey. If achieving all of your goals was easy, everyone would be rich, fit, and madly in love. Realize all the accomplishments you have made in the past. You have achieved things, you have overcome things. There is no reason that you can’t have everything you desire if it’s what is best for you and what you are meant to have.
Wishing you peace, love, strength and health in the New Year.
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Liz Jones is the Wellness Coordinator for the City of Mesquite a wellness professional in Rockwall, Mesquite, Wylie and surrounding areas. She is a writer, certified yoga instructor, personal trainer and wellness coach. She holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership and Strategic Management, with a graduate certificate in Ethics and Leadership. Her undergraduate studies included communication, business, writing, art, fitness, and dance. Liz Jones can be reached at: [email protected].