Start the new year strong

Happy New Year!!!! I hope this year brings you new levels of growth, joy, and health. Before focusing on what needs to change and diving into your new year's resolutions, though, I think it's important to take a moment to appreciate all you've been through this year, what you've accomplished, and all the wonderful things that are already in your life. Just focusing on resolutions can start you off in the new year like you're scrambling to catch up. But, I know you've been through a lot this year, and that you've come so far. Why not take a moment to acknowledge this, so you can start the new year strong, on solid footing, and ready to stride forward. To do this, I invite you to take a few moments to look back over 2013. And grab a pencil and paper. (I've also got a printable worksheet you can fill out, which you can access here or by clicking the image below).

Whether you use the worksheet or your own paper, here are the basic steps to help you start the new year with strength and clarity:

Step #1:

First, think about everything you overcame in 2014, and everything you've accomplished. This is where you get to brag! I highly recommend you actually write these down. Even if its a struggle to think of things, sit with it until you come up with at least 10. I know you can. Read these over and celebrate your strength, and what you can accomplish if you set your mind to it. 

Step #2:

Next, take a moment to appreciate just where you are. You might not be exactly where you want to be yet, and it's great to have things to look forward to, but first take a moment to notice all the good things in your life.  A puppy friend? Clean water? A garden? Let loose with the gratitude and find at least 10 things to write down. Look them over and settle into a sense of peace, knowing that even though you're ready to change and grow this year, your life is already full of blessings. 

Step 3: Envisioning the new year

Now that you've done this exercise, take a moment to breathe into this sense of accomplishment and gratitude. Start from this feeling of stability and strength, and begin to look forward into the future. What do you want to experience this year? What do you want your work situation to be like? What do you want in your relationship? How do you want to feel in your body? Close your eyes and imagine you've accomplished all of this already, and the year is going exactly as you wished. What would that be like? What sights would surround you? How would you move through space? Would you have less tension in your shoulders? A spring in your step? Allow yourself to pre-enjoy all the ways this new year will bring you unprecedented levels of calm, support, and health. Allow the sensations to sink into your body and your awareness. Returning to this feeling and this visualization several times throughout the year will help keep you on track for living the life you want, aligning all the cells of your body and the focus of your mind to help you reach your goals. [caption id="attachment_1517" align="aligncenter" width="500"] envision your chosen path through the next year.[/caption] I hope you enjoyed this short exercise and that you're feeling energized for the year to come.  May this year be the best yet! If you want to further cement your goals for the next year, feel free to share some of your accomplishments, gratitude list, or vision in the comments below : )