New You

New Year, New You…we see it everywhere this time of year. Why is it we have to re-invent ourselves at the start of each year? Have we gotten so off track the previous year we need a complete reset and have to be a “NEW YOU?” For instance, when I set a weight-loss goal and make a “detour” from the plan I’ll joke about it to my husband and say, mid-bite into my cheesecake, “I fell off the wagon again…” He’ll often respond, tongue-in-cheek, “Well, if you’re gonna fall off the wagon, you might as well have it drag you behind it!”

It’s so easy to get off track at the beginning of a fresh year because expectations are high, often unreasonably, I might add. Hopes are inflated and dreams seem within arms reach as we stargaze into the possibilities of what may come at the outset of a new year. But goals and dreams take hard work, often a lot of elbow grease, a good plan and constant determination, as obstacles are always getting in the way. As the days on the calendar pass, the will diminishes and it’s all too easy to become less aware of those audacious goals and maintain enthusiasm when the drumbeat of life marches on.   

I don’t want to make excuses for not bettering myself, so hear me out, that’s not what I’m suggesting. I’ve always been a goal setter from a young age. In fact something I learned when I was a teenager has helped me to set goals for the good portion of my life. It was a quote that said, “If you aim for nothing, you’ll probably hit it.” I’m not sure who termed this phrase but my youth pastor used to say it all the time and it has stuck with me ever since. 

I believe it’s important to stay teachable, be a constant learner and strive for excellence. Those are qualities I have front and center every day, not just at the start of the new year. As I think of a “New You” I have decided I will prioritize what’s really important to me. I will make priorities based on my core values and strive to maintain them throughout the year. I won’t feel overwhelmed by the thought of missing a huge goal and being stressed out about it everyday till I give up. I won’t put undue pressure on myself but will create healthy boundaries and put systems in place to help me keep those priorities. I will strive to live each day with grace, truth, love and compassion for myself, and for others because this is one tough world we live in and it doesn’t look like it’s getting easier anytime soon…

At the end of the day, and 2021, that will be enough!

What does “New You” mean for you at the start of this new year?

I pray this is an amazing year for you!

May you prioritize what’s truly important to you and see your wildest dreams come true!

Happy New Year friends!