It's everywhere already. Lose weight now! Find romance today! Start the year fresh with X, Y, or Z change! It’s exhausting at times. For me, the start of a new year is just as good a time as any to take a moment to reflect on what happened the previous year and start planning for the upcoming year.
I’ve started thinking about my own experiences recently, mostly so I can get a jump start on the new year (I mean, why do things in January when you can do them now?).
Here are 5 things I try to practice every day to help me navigate through this crazy thing called life. Believe me, it’s a work in progress.
1. Be kind to yourself. Easier said than done, I know. Go easy on yourself and silence that inner critic (who needs that kind of negativity anyways). Take care of yourself so you can help take care of others. It’s not selfish, it’s self-care.
2. Be your authentic self. It’s more than your gender, your job, or any other label/category. This is who you are at your core – your true values. It requires being honest with yourself, being comfortable in your own skin, and letting go of the past. Just be you. There’s no one else like you – and that’s an awesome thing!
3. Always be curious. Read, learn, explore. I believe you’re never too old (or too young) to try something new. I got my scuba diving certification in my 40s and wrote my first book at 50. I even went parasailing not too long ago and can’t wait to do it again. Remember, it’s a big world out there – go experience it!
4. Be grateful. We’re constantly bombarded with ads for the latest and greatest gadgets or social media posts of designer clothes and exotic vacations. It can be hard to appreciate what you already have. Studies have shown that starting your day thinking of just 3 things you’re grateful for, it can positively impact your mindset for the rest of your day. Stop comparing yourself to everyone else and just be grateful for what you have (friends, family, health, your furry family members – whatever makes you smile).
5. Above all else, be kind. The world can always use more kindness. This one can be hard for me, especially before coffee. Traffic is crazy? Someone cut in front of you? Before getting upset, put yourself in their shoes. You never know what someone else may be going through. So, hold the door open for the person behind you, let someone with only a couple items in their shopping cart check out before you, ask the barista about their day, or just smile at a stranger. Let kindness spread.
What else would you add?
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