New Year New You by Barb Petersen-Fox

The start of a new year creates an opportunity for new beginnings, hopefulness, and for some people, New Year’s resolutions. While resolutions can be energizing for some, they can feel daunting for others.

 I recently saw a book-related meme that described the new year as 12 chapters with 365 new chances, which is a more open-ended way to frame the possibilities a new year presents.

 Author/podcaster, Gretchen Rubin, suggests choosing a theme or word for the year. The key is to focus on what makes you feel uplifted and yet allows you to stretch.

 If your life is too hectic, maybe you choose simplicity. If you are going through a difficult time, maybe your word for the year is positivity. Other words that may come to mind are:  peacefulness, education, health, or wellness.

Once you land on your word or theme, think of simple ways to move in that direction.

For example, if you chose simplicity:

-       Give yourself permission to turn off the notifications on your phone
-        Dump applications that take up space (on your phone and in your head), and don’t feel the need to be tuned in to the world 24/7
-        Take time to be still and in the moment
-        Try yoga
-        Try mindfulness
-        Try meditation.

 Whatever path you follow with the new year, consider adopting a positive affirmation such as, “I love and accept myself the way I am.” Remember to treat yourself with loving kindness. Happy New Year!

Barb is a licensed counselor with Clarity Counseling in West Des Moines, IA. She is a contributor to Step Up, a newsletter focused on shedding light on the issue of workplace harassment, bullying and retaliation in the workplace. More information on her work can be found here: www.claritycounselingdm.com. You may contact Barb at barb@claritycounselingdm.com.