How many of us vow to make big or subtle changes for the New Year?
The gyms will be crowded for a couple of weeks until the non-serious choose sleep over sweat, the alcohol will remain in cabinets until Super Bowl (that’s a stretch), and the attitude adjustments will make it until the first challenge presents itself. These are just a sample of the resolutions that stand little chance for success. Yet, year after year, we dive head first into the possibility of a mini makeover and why not start on January 1st?
Did you know the whole idea of New Years resolutions began in 153 B.C.? Did you know that “Auld Lang Syne” is sung in nearly every English speaking country in the world at midnight? We are not alone in this reflection of the past year and the promise of the one that lies ahead. We are designed to constantly tweek and evolve!
I know many reject the idea of resolutions because of their seemingly lack of success but I’m a dreamer and looking ahead is where I’m placing my focus and my energy. 2010 was a difficult year in many ways and I have a true need to see big changes in 2011. Though it is none of my business or concern to interfere in your resolution, I will take this liberty to suggest just a few for all of us.
- Know who you are. Have you changed to fit someone else’s mold? Find your true self no matter what the cost is.
- Know who you are in Christ. If you have fallen away, return. If you have never known Him, introduce yourself today. Don’t wait to clean up your life; just come as you are.
- Find your passion and live it. You’re not too old, too young, too inexperienced or any of the other lies that are keeping you from seeing your passion bloom. Plant it and watch what happens.
- Stay true to your boundaries and to your word.
There are so many things more important than calories. Health, for one thing! But let’s keep it all in perspective this year. Let’s look inward instead of outward. I think that when I zero in on my true self and stand strong on my boundaries, I’m going to find it easier to live my passion. I am that hopeful to think that our inward self is the key to everything else happening naturally.
Eat the piece of cake. Skip the gym every once in a while in favor of time with a loved one. Spend more time playing with the dog instead of just feeding him. Reach out to a co-worker who needs a hand. Visit someone who is lonely. Spend time in prayer instead of on Facebook. Find your voice.
Don’t waiver your morals. Don’t give up on your dreams. Don’t stand for injustice. Don’t let anyone make you feel less than you are.
We all get that, right? Let’s live it.
Happy New Year. Feliz Ano Neuvo.
Eftecheezmaenos o Kaenooryos hronos. (she’ll know who this is for)
Be blessed and make your change!