I always find this week to be interesting. Christmas celebrations are over and New Year celebrations are only a few days away. Some of us will take down the trees and put away the tinsel and bows while others will wait until the Epiphany on Friday, January 6.
For those of you who are not familiar with the Epiphany. This is the 12 days between Christmas and the recognition of Jesus with the arrival of the Wise Men.
No matter how or when you clean up the wrapping paper and tree needles it does seem like a time of new beginnings and fresh starts. The house reverts back to it's pre-Christmas appearance, the celebrations are about to end as everyone returns to work and school.
I had a wonderful Christmas. Filled with family, friends, lots of laughter and love. But now I'm ready to clean up and restart. Not necessarily making resolutions but an undertone of excitement of what this New Year can bring. Thoughts of how I can be a better person. As you clean up, what are you thoughts? Do you want a change in your life? If so, how do you plan on making these changes and sticking with them?
As I reflect back on my many resolutions or decisions to change I recognize that I always start with great intentions. Ready to seize the day! Whether the goal is to: Lose the Weight, Exercise More, Educate Myself, Keep a Organized and Clean Home, Be On-Time (I'm still working on this one), Become More Connected Spiritually, Volunteer More.....I could go on and on. But in the end many times I falter and then try again the next New Year. Something gets in the way, there's not enough time, I take on more than I can handle or the chips and dip are just too tempting to resist.
So...How Do You Stay Committed to Change? Many times the things we do are all about repetition, routine, accountability and letting go of the ideas that block you from success. What if this is the year you make the changes that last. But it takes more than an idea on New Years Eve. It takes a plan, it takes support and it takes the confidence in yourself to know you can succeed.
“A goal without a plan is just a wish.
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This year plan out the changes you want to make, know how they work into your schedule, connect with a life coach or a personal trainer, join a gym, buy the running shoes, or closet organizer, get a fresh calendar, write your goals down and read them every day twice a day, write a budget and make sure it is feasible, start visiting churches and find the one that fits - not just on Sunday but for events, classes and activities. It's time to plan your work and work your plan. The time is now, to make your wishes, desires and dreams a reality.
““Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to great places. You’re off and away! You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself any direction you choose.” ”
I wish each of you good healthy, happy living and the confidence in yourselves to plan and make the changes you want in your life.
Grace, Peace & Healthy Living,
Lorraine
