I absolutely adore the holiday season, especially in the Northeast. The crisp chill in the air, the bare trees, and the crunch of frost underfoot all feel like an invitation to pause and reflect.
With fewer daylight hours, nature nudges us to slow down, rest, and take stock of our lives. There's something magical about a steaming cup of tea, the glow of warm lighting, and the blanket of early darkness that stirs a romantically contemplative mood in me.
As we approach a new year, it’s the perfect time to pause and ask ourselves some reflective questions before jumping into resolutions or setting new goals. Here are three that I find particularly powerful:
1. How was I blessed this year?
Even in the hardest times, blessings often find their way into our lives. Sometimes, it's a glimmer of hope, the kindness of a helping hand, or the comfort of a heartfelt hug. How were you blessed this year? Take a moment to get as detailed as possible—you might be surprised to discover that some of your biggest blessings came from the most challenging moments.
2. What kind of world did I create?
We all play a role in shaping the world we live in. If we envision a better world, we must also believe in our ability to contribute to it. We are all accountable for the state of the world and it isn't someone else's problem. So if envision a certain state of the world, we need to open our minds to the possibility that we can do something about it. Can you make that mindset shift?
Our efforts may not yield immediate results, but they can plant seeds for a better future—for our children, grandchildren, Mother Nature, and our fellow animals. You can't contest that nature and animals came before us.
Take an honest, nonjudgmental look at your choices and actions this year. How did they impact the world around you? Maybe there are things you did well and want to continue, or perhaps some areas stand out as opportunities to align your actions with the kind of world you'd like to live in.
3. How can I embody more of what I need?
At our core, we all seek love, acceptance, support, and non-judgment. While material goals have their place, these fundamental needs are what truly sustain us.
Ask yourself: How can I embody more of what I need? How can you show up with more love, open-heartedness, open-mindedness, support, and non-judgment—not just for others but for yourself? Let these values become your guiding light as you move forward.
As you reflect on these questions, I hope they provide clarity and inspiration. May they serve as your north star as you step into the new year with intention and purpose.
Note: All images have been sourced from Wix Media
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