We each have a significant time of the year that symbolizes new beginnings. For some, it is their birthday, a fresh start. New Years Day triggers an opportunity to start something new, to set goals. Other folks think of Christmas as the season that marks the birth of great possibilities. These times are about letting go of the past and putting aside our failures and disappointments to start with a new perspective.
We, humans, want a fresh look at the future. We thrive on wonderful possibilities and our desires manifesting. We cherish that feeling of HOPE. And yet, we often do not go after a new beginning. We pass that significant marker of time and repeat what we have always been doing. So what will jump-start us to make a change in our lives?
The answer is nothing profound. It is simply to take one small step. Doing this starts the momentum forward. If you do not know where to start, think about the answers to the following questions:
1. Do you ever see photos of your friends who have gone somewhere fun and you thought you would like to do that too? Write down those places.
2. When you read holiday letters that accompanied cards, did you think that you could never write one because your life is so mundane? Make a list of what happened in your life this past year that you are grateful for and the folks you are grateful for. Surprisingly, memories will pop up about very cool things you have participated in this past year.
3. What have you been putting off to do, to taste or see? Make a list.
4. What comes after the phrase “When I have the time, I will…”?
New beginnings are up to you. You are responsible for your life. This doesn’t mean that you do it all alone. Start by writing down the answers to some of the above questions or list other desires you have. Research the places, investigate, set an appointment, or take another small step. Yes, there will always be obstacles that come up and people who may not like what you are doing, but you can ignore them and do it anyway.
Remember what Erma Bombeck said. “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ’I used everything you gave me.’ ”