As December and it’s festivities wind down, many of us will take the time to look ahead to the new year. But before it arrives, we can set the tone for our new year by taking stock. We can take an end-of-year pause to close out this year while preparing to start the next with intention and clarity. By taking the time to reflect we remind ourselves of what really matters, and that progress is not a straight line. It’s actually a dance between growth, pause, and renewal.
So before you get caught up in the energy of the new year, take the time to honor the year that is passing and use the wisdom you’ve learned to guide you into the coming year with purpose.
Reflection
December is a month suspended between the past and the future. While the season is often characterized by hustle and bustle, it is actually a time best suited to slowing down and acknowledging the path we’ve been walking on that brought us to this moment.
Reflection lets us ask meaningful questions: What did I learn this year? Where did I find joy? What challenges refined me? What habits or relationships enriched my life, and which ones weighed me down? The insights we gain by asking ourselves these questions are the building blocks of a more enjoyable life and our ideal 100 Year LifestyleⓇ.
The answers to the questions we ask ourselves become the foundation for future choices and actions. They become the building blocks we use to live intentionally in the coming year. They are the gifts of awareness and focus we give to ourselves this holiday season.
Gratitude
The end-of-the-year pause isn’t just a time for looking at our achievements and shortcomings. It’s also a time for taking a deep dive into gratitude. That feeling of gratitude can not only put any disappointment into perspective but also provide energy and motivation for the year ahead. We know that gratitude boosts mental health, increases resilience, and creates a greater sense of happiness. Who wouldn’t pause for that?
Getting Ready for Change
If you enjoy creating resolutions for the new year, how can you possibly do that without reflection? Taking time to take stock will allow you to become clear about what changes you could make that would actually matter. And to thoughtfully create a plan to make them stick. Without reflection you end up with vague goals, often flimsy and fleeting.
It’s reflection that helps us see the truth of where we are, where we want to go, and what we need to do to get there. Need some help here? As yourself questions like: Which aspects of my life align with my values? What am I doing out of habit rather than purpose? And what do I need to let go of to make space for what truly matters?
Pause, Don’t Judge
It’s important to approach this end-of-year pause with kindness. Reflecting on a year’s worth of living doesn’t mean scrutinizing yourself with a hyper-critical eye. This pause isn’t about “fixing” yourself; it’s about seeing yourself. It’s about embracing your victories and imperfections with equal compassion. Reflection is an opportunity to honor your entire journey, not just revisit the major milestones.
Get Started
- Set the Scene: Find a quiet space where you can sit without interruptions.
- Choose Your Tools: Use a journal or even a vision board to capture your thoughts.
- Start with Prompts: Use prompts like “What moment this year brought me the most joy?” or “What did I learn about myself in moments of stress?”
- Celebrate and Release: Reflect on what you’re proud of, and consciously let go of regrets or frustrations that don’t serve you.
Reflections on Health
Looking honestly and realistically at your health should be part of your end-of-the-year pause. As they say, without good health, nothing else really matters.
Have you been taking care of your spine and nervous system? Do you eat properly? Have you been surrounding yourself with meaningful work and good friends? If your ideal 100 Year LifestyleⓇ could use some attention in the coming year, we’re here to help. First, find a provider near you and make the call today!
Then, order your copy of The 100 Year Lifestyle’sⓇ Healthy Longevity Package to guide you step-by-step through the new year on your path to living at 100% for 100 years or more.
Here’s to a wonderful, healthy New Year!
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