Some of us put a lot of emphasis on resolutions at the beginning of the year, but what about starting it at the end of the year? Why wait for the new year to start something new? When we think about how we want to end the year, we might consider our goals, habits, and mindset. These are the things that can keep us from feeling and having what we want. What is your end-of-year resolution?
Being Grateful
Many people see January 1st as a fresh start. I used to look forward to the new year because I wanted change, but I’ve realized that change isn’t tied to a date. It begins with our mindset. We tend to believe that something or someone else will make us happier, but if we can’t appreciate what we have now, having more will not fix that. Wanting more does not create happiness. Being grateful does. What are you thankful for right now? Let’s close out the year with gratitude.
Starting Small
Our mindset is instrumental in planting the seed for change, but our actions are what water the seed for growth. When we think of our habits, which ones are blocking us from growing, and which ones are helping us grow? The common reason why people don’t see change is because of inconsistency. Just like a plant needs consistent care, our goals and desires do too. Sometimes the key is to start small. Think of a plant: a seed is tiny, but with care and patience, it eventually grows into something more. What is one small step you can take towards your goal?
Evaluating Goals
Goals are great for personal development, but our intentions behind them are just as important. When we think about our goals, do they stem from where we think we should be? Many goals aren’t even what we want for ourselves, but what others might expect from us. Sometimes, the expectations we allow others to hold us to are keeping us from growth. If you take the external pressures away, how would your goals look differently?
Ending the Year
As the new year approaches, many of us are already thinking about our resolutions. Why not set a resolution for the end of this month? Consider the mindset, habit, or goal you want to embrace as you wrap up this year. Cheers to finishing the year on a positive note!