New
Years is a time when we typically make resolutions. We begin to think about
what we want to do and how we want to be as we forge ahead into another year.
We often get caught up in the nostalgia of the season and contemplate the clean
slate that lies ahead of us. Choices are made that we think will help us make
this year different than last. However, if you are someone who made a
resolution, my guess is that you have already broken it or maybe even forgotten
what it was. From what I know, this is pretty typical of most people.
Considering
that the perspective you hold has the ability to change you, maybe there is
another way to think about it that will enhance your well-being. You can change
your actions by simply having a strong will, but usually that is not enough to
sustain them long term. Since action stems from your belief and your
perspective, it is important to identify what you believe and what the story is
that you have been telling yourself about that belief; Often it has more to do
with the feelings you hold about yourself. I’m too old or too busy, maybe it is
when I get more money this will work out…I think almost everyone can identify
with one of these story lines. These thoughts keep a person hostage to them and
this awareness can help move past them and into something more live giving.
Most people I have encountered have a desire
and are on a journey for greater spiritual and personal growth; they want a
closer and deeper relationship with God, themselves and each other. They want
to live with more balance and alignment between what they believe and what they
do. This is the key to navigating each day in a way that honors what you want
most and allows for a change in how you see the world and therefore informs
your actions.
One of
my favorite verses in the Bible comes from Psalms 46:10 and is; “Be still and
know that I am God.” The first part of this process in discerning what you want
for the year ahead is to become still. Our society seems to measure our worth
by what we can generate and what we can accumulate and somehow we have bought
into this notion. This busyness of our time suggests that we just keep moving
so we continue to give our attention and resources to keep the belief alive and
the vicious cycle continues. There are many ways and ideas about how to find
quiet time in your life. It does not matter how you do it, but that you do it.
I know you may heard this a million times already but listening and taking
stock of what you’re doing is the only way to stop the cycle. This can be done
by asking yourself a few simple questions such as: When you think about your
day ahead, where are you frustrated, sad, anxious etc.? How does your body
feel…tired, in pain, nervous etc.? They are more than feelings as these signs
play an important role in your well-being; they are asking you to pay
attention!
That
is usually what our resolutions are made up of, things that have made us
uncomfortable.This
is the beginning place to listen to yourself, challenge beliefs and dare to
make new choices that allow a new perspective to emerge. This is what is
commonly known as a ahah moment! In this quiet place you can begin to identify
the feelings under the change you want to make. Ask questions like what if…I
was not afraid or sad or frustrated? What if I really could do that…what would
it say about me? What if I felt worthy? What
do I think God is asking me to do? Is it different than what I want to do? I
would suggest that your inquiry is one of curiosity and wonder rather judgment
against yourself or others.
If
this sounds exciting and scary all at the same time you are on the right path.
There is risk involved as well as courage and a great love for yourself to
decide that you want something different. It does not matter if it is something
big or small, as long as it holds importance for you! Just in deciding that you want to slow down
and discern what you want in your life will help you begin to notice the
thoughts and beliefs that have prevented you from making the desired changes.
And with gentle and loving inquiry your frame of mind will change and you will
begin to notice your actions are fueled by this new outlook. Always remember
that this is a journey, not a destination as you move closer to yourself, others
and God. Blessings to you~
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