The new year is here! First, let me do the customary and say Happy new year!! Good, now that that's ticked off, let us chat. So yes, the new year is here. As soon as a year approaches its end,we’re quick to ask, ‘what’s your new year resolution? We get so accustomed to setting resolutions in a new year that we get so heated; when at the end, the goals are unaccomplished.
Make it visible
I am in no way knocking all of you who do all this fancy stuffas a matter of fact the book of Habakkuk says we should write the vision and make it plain,
“And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.” (Habakkuk chapter 2, verses 2-3)
While, the scripture quoted above, may be seen as an encouragement to do vision boarding, let's be real and admit that; it does not always work for some or better yet, there is no one way in doing a vision board, Some may design a canvas, cut pictures from magazine and or newspaper that illustrate goals that you want to accomplish for the year/period ahead. While some, like myself, will just grab their journaling tools and write goals and ideas, they have in mind for the year down.
The new year is, for some, a time/ a sign of newness; For others, perhaps based on the environment they’re in at the moment when it approaches and the type of year they previously had; it is not so much of a big deal, the end number just simply changes.
The cliche reminder
I know it's hard. However, I am that friend who wants to remind you, a bad day or experience does not mean a bad life. Whatever task you have planned for this calendar year stay committed regardless of the challenges you encounter; they are inevitable, they don't last forever. Get up, brush yourself and keep going. Keep going king; keep going queen! Be it friendships, work, school or whatever relationship it is, stay committed to whatever mission or task you’ve set…
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians chapter 6 verse 9)
Prioritize yourself
While we are committed to others because we want to be there for them, to support and encourage them...Remember that you are human too and you need time for yourself and God. Free yourself from the shackles of feeling bad for not being there for someone, a task or event. Do not be sorry for these according to Zhara-Marie Henry; paraphrased by the writer:
1. Prioritizing your spiritual growth: Just as your physical body needs food and the different vitamins for strength; so, does your spiritual aspect of yourself.
2. Doing what's best for you in a season: Some people will not understand why it is that you do what you do; still do you, regardless.
3. Your feelings: If your mind is not well. You can't physically do well. Your feelings matter
4. Wanting alone time: It is okay to take a break. Matter a fact, if the creator of the earth rested, why should you not; too?
5. Your opinions: what you have to say matters, your insight and your perspective; speak up, speak up!
Do it for you
While I am all about sharing, I am strongly for not pouring from an empty cup. It is okay to be selfish for your own good. Taking care of yourself is important and even Jesus spoke to this.
Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (St. Mark chapter 6, verse 31).
As I close, for today upon reflection, I came across this article, that perfectly aligns with this article and I wish to leave solo tips here from the recommended article
Practice mindfulness, embrace change, have faith in yourself, slow down, commit to meeting your personal needs, focus on not just your to do but also a to be list, take breaks from the noisy world, accept where you are, recognise that it is okay to not always be okay and finally keep things in perspective!
[10 Positive things to do for yourself in the new year, Lori Deschene; Tiny Buddha]
I hope you find this insightful and will put at least one tip into action. Do not be unkind, but it is time to be your own cheerleader while being the same for others, create healthy practices, for you just as much and stick to the mission.