Every year I am both amazed and overwhelmed by the bombardment of goal setting, resolutions, etc. While I can appreciate the auspiciousness of observing a reset with a new year, many years I have found myself half heartedly committing to a goal or resolution simply because it seemed everyone around me was doing the same.
Time and self reflection have delivered a little more wisdom for my dreaming and goal setting. Here we are more than a week into the new year but there’s no hurry. In fact, waiting for the pressure of those early days to pass can bring the spaciousness we need for true reflection.
Whether it’s January 1 or April 23 here is a compassionate practice when you need a reset:
- A restful space is essential to tuning in to the heart’s true desires. Set aside a chunk of uninterrupted time. Create a cozy space free of clutter and distractions. Hang the “do not disturb” sign on the door and the phone.
- Come from a place of peace and gratitude. Start by acknowledging your blessings, rather than focusing on what you lack.
- Journal any challenges from the past year or season and the wisdom that resulted. Honor and celebrate how far you have come!
- Examine all the pieces of your life- your home, family, friendships, work, hobbies, habits, etc. Do any of these areas feel stuck? Does anxiety come up just thinking about that thing? Does it feel like anything is out of alignment?
- What would bring you into a feeling of alignment? Often, saying “no” or setting firm boundaries can bring about needed change rather than trying harder or doing more. What would create a feeling of spaciousness in your life? What do your dreams look like without limits or inhibitions? Is there a clear and obvious dream or goal that rises from these reflections?
Practice with me? Here’s a 15 minute meditation with crystal bowl sound experience (I recommend pausing before the sound experience to spend time journaling through the above questions): Limitless: A Meditation for the New Year-NEW $6
