Have you ever wondered why New Year's resolutions don't typically last past February 1st? We've all done it; we make a long list of goals and push ourselves for a short period of time. Eventually, we give up and return to our normal routine. This year does not have to follow this pattern. If you want to make a change, now is the time to do something about it.
It is possible to dream big while creating a practical set of steps to achieve your goals. As the year comes to an end, I invite you to make a list of goals that promote growth rather than act as a bandaid for the parts of your life that do not satisfy you. I have an exercise that will help you do just that.
De-Stress and Re-Inspire: Questions to Promote Growth
I would like to introduce you to an exercise that you can use on New Year's Eve or whenever you need a healthy re-set in your life. The Gregorian calendar does not dictate your timeline for change...you do. So, if you're asking yourself how to feel more confident in your goals, find a piece of paper and a pen. Try to answer these three sets of questions as honestly as you can.
1. What is your dream? In what ways can you dream bigger?
When you ask yourself this question, consider the parts of your life that bring you joy and make you feel love. For example, I love the teachings of Ayurveda. I've learned how to de-stress and prioritize my health while studying this ancient science. So, maybe my dream is to share Ayurveda with a more broad audience. How do I do that? Maybe I write a book or create a podcast. However you choose to express your love, your dream should allow you to engage in something that brings you joy.
What can I do to improve other people's lives?
This question is all about considering how you can share your passions, talents and gifts with others. It is wonderful to you work toward your dream for the sake of your own joy but when you give it to someone else, you can make an impact on their life as well. There is no greater sense of fulfillment than enriching your life while positively contributing to someone else's growth.
What are the small things I can do daily to change my life?
This question is all about practical planning. Let's return to my book example: In order to write a book I may need some guidance. I can reach out to other authors in my network and pick their brain about their process. I will also need extra time to dedicate to writing. This may mean saving up in order to scale back my work hours or hiring an assistant to help me make room in my schedule for writing. Consider the practical steps that you will need to take in order to achieve your dreams
Another crucial component of this question is health. How can you achieve your goals if you feel unwell? During the holidays I almost always get sick because it is culturally encouraged to drink more, eat a lot of sugar and pack my schedule. This year I decided to make a different choice. If I was feeling weak or sluggish, I swapped the holiday leftovers and wine for food that served my body.
I believe indulgence is wonderful in moderation. However, when your body is sending you signals to slow down or nourish it, I encourage you to listen. Remember - if you’re not taking time for wellness, you’re leaving room for illness which will deplete your dream.
Commit to Believing in You
As a final intention-setting exercise, I invite you to answer the following question: Do you believe in you? I know this can be a tough question to answer because unfortunately, we have to accept that we can put a lot of work into achieving our goals and still experience set backs that are completely out of our control.
I invite you to find ways to believe in yourself, even during challenging times. According to the Vedas, we can plant seeds, provide them with water and sunlight and still not see the fruits of our labor grow in the way we expect. Know that you can believe in the power of you without trying to control the uncontrollable. Even if the seeds that you plant grow in an unexpected way, eventually you will find meaning and gratitude for the difficult moments. They will help you grow into the most evolved version of yourself.
If we've learned anything from 2020, it's that "quick fixes" don't really work. If we want to know how to feel less anxious or how to feel more confident, the truth is, you are the key to your growth. If you’re still feeling fatigued after this difficult year, I invite you to make conscious choices and engage in meaningful activities like my Thrive 2021 group coaching program. Investing in your energy, health, productivity and happiness will be the key to thriving in 2021. It's taking the extra initiative that will help you set and keep to intentions that promote your growth in the new year and beyond!
If you're interested in prioritizing your health in 2021, book your first Ayurvedic Health Consultation session. A new year is an opportunity to make positive life changes! If you're curious to learn more about how to set intentions and manifest empowerment in your life, schedule your free breakthrough session and we can create a personalized plan to help you thrive in 2021.
