To Prepare for the New Year
Just when we think we have it all figured out something changes and we’re left to wonder … ‘What’s next?’ Before we can plan for any new beginning, it’s helpful to look at where we’ve been in order to move forward with clarity and gratitude.
Start simply: Make yourself a cup of tea, meditate, listen to music, or go for a walk. In other words, do something calm and grounding. This is an opportunity to get out of your head and give your intuition a chance to speak. Once you feel relaxed, jot down whatever comes to mind with these five questions. Don’t overthink your responses, give yourself 2-minutes per question to see what comes up:
What moments changed me and what did they teach me?
As you think about your year, what shifted? Look for both quiet shifts and more obvious turning points. How did this alter your course and what did you learn? A lot can happen in a year (planned and unplanned). Celebrate your accomplishments and recognize the changes that occurred along the way.
Where did I act in alignment with my values, and where did I compromise them?
Even if you don’t know what your core values are, you do know the feeling of when things feel ‘on or off’. This is an opportunity for you to notice and review the experiences (without judgement) so that in the future when you encounter a similar feeling, you’ll be aware of the impact and your choices.
What did I give my energy to and what gave energy back to me?
Sometimes we put a lot of energy into things with limited ‘pay-off’, and at other times things flow effortlessly. Answering this question will help you tap into your natural gifts and reveal what is sustainable, not just productive.
How did I respond to challenge: from fear or from intention?
Challenges are inevitable, how we respond to them impacts the outcome (What Can I Do?). Did you react from fear (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) or with compassion (calm, present, aware, real)? The shift allows us to see, hear, and understand the best path forward opening new possibilities.
What am I ready to release so I can transition forward with grace?
Letting go of distractions and old feelings that no longer serve you is a gift to our present and future self. It’s time to make space for your next chapter to emerge.
CLOSING
Thank you so much for being part of my community. Your presence, comments, shares, support, and positive energy are greatly appreciated.
Throughout the year, I’ve been blessed to work with partners who help bring our collective visions alive in many ways. Here are a few memorable activities: IWD2025, Speaking Engagements, Podcasts, Workshops and Events (Women’s Health, Values, Partnerships), Publications (Books, Poetry, and Articles), Compassion Month, Cognitively-Based Compassion Training, and more.
Women’s Health, Speaking, Writing, Values
In my last newsletter, Starting Something New, I explored the essence of change and what it means to transition with GRACE built on a foundation of five value pillars: gratitude, respect, acceptance, compassion, and empathy.
Planning is great, and I’m all for it, but sometimes things happen and we have to pivot. No matter what challenges or opportunities come your way, the key will be to TRUST in your own purpose and allow space for things to FLOW forward. If It’s FUN, and/or my heart is moved to DO SOMETHING… it’s on the table for consideration.
What’s something you’re considering?
Life is too short, so give yourself permission to shine. May you appreciate your own transitions and have a very Happy New Year!