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I hope you all had a great Christmas with your family and friends. Last week I took off all week which was really nice to relax and do all of the festive family stuff. We went to celebrate Christmas with James’ family first, and then to mine for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. One of the things that I did over the break was a lot of research on my ancestors through genealogy. This is so great to do as you find out where you came from and the information can be passed down from generation to generation. Family time is so important during this time of year. This New Years Eve we will be keeping it pretty low key most likely with games and takeout. One of the things I like to reflect on as I ring in the new year are accomplishments, challenges and other blessings throughout the year. Last year James and I did a bucket list which will be great to read on New Years Day to see all what we have accomplished. I know a lot of people like to also think of New Years resolutions, but I think it is better to think of goals or what you would like to continue on for the new year as well.

Heading Into the New Year

• Observe What Worked: Think back to how you felt this past year and what made you feel your happiest. Perhaps this could have been when you were working out and this not only became a habit but a lifestyle change. I continued through reformer pilates and tried to ramp it up more during the week. I started to crave these workouts and looked forward to them. Also at work putting notes in my calendar for certain time blocks for reminders and also putting in my personal calendar routine maintenance tasks helped a lot. Assessing these items and continuing through with them will give you a clear vision of where to go in the new year.
• Always Document: I like to journal and spend some time every morning reflecting on goals for the day and also prayers. I also like to document all of my tasks like I mentioned above which helps me stay organized. This is also great to do at your job as well and is a way to look back and make progress on your career goals and where you envision yourself each year.
• Prioritize What Your Year Looks Like: If you thought that 2021 was even more crazy and stressful on your health than 2020, then you should evaluate what was promoting that stress. When it comes to work I think we should all do a little more work/life balance to not get overwhelmed. If it is not business hours, then don’t be checking your email because it is a habit or you always want to make sure you don’t miss anything. Take a breather and understand that it is not good to always be on. If you want to have more time to yourself in the new year then stop saying yes to every invite because you have FOMO. It is ok to be by yourself, that is how you grow even more as an individual.
• Take Care of Your Health: As I have mentioned before, 2020 was a very stressful year health wise for my family. It is important to continue to stay healthy physically and mentally no matter what life throws at you. As you are envisioning what your year looks like and writing things down, take a moment to go visit your doctor for a physical and book that dermatologist or dentist appointment that you always put off. Having it planned and written down will help so much, and will just be like another meeting that is already scheduled. Also get that massage or facial that you want. Your skin is your largest organ and massages can do a wonder for your body. Prioritizing these over a fancy meal will be the best thing for your health.
• Eliminate What Doesn’t Bring You Joy: Marie Kondo has helped everyone spark joy in their home with their possessions, but think more of other things that weigh you down in life. If there is someone who is always negative in your life and you think about this every year, then this is the time to do something about it or turn over a new leaf. If there is an organization you are in that does not provide fulfillment like it used to or even a job, then try to think about if this is right for you. Eliminating these burdens will give you so much joy and give you the ability take on any new adventure without the baggage.

I hope that these tips provide you with a perspective to go into the new year. These are good to think of what worked, what brought joy, and any other reflections to have the best year yet. Stay safe this New Years Eve and find your new year sparkle.