As the dawn of a new year approaches, the air is filled with the customary buzz of resolutions, promises, and the undeniable pressure to set lofty goals. However, this year, I chose not to make New Year Resolutions. Incidentally, it’s not because I lack ambition or direction, but rather, the lessons of the past year have etched upon my heart the profound truth: “Man proposes, and God disposes.”
Life is uncertain
Life has an uncanny way of throwing unexpected curveballs our way. Take, for instance, my desire to run a full marathon. I was ready, committed, and determined. But fate had other plans and a a traumatic leg injury became a stark reminder that some things are beyond our control. This unforeseen challenge taught me the importance of flexibility in our aspirations. Rather than rigid resolutions, I’ve come to embrace the idea of setting intentions and adapting to the twists and turns life may bring.
Dashed Hopes and Missed Aspirations
The beginning of 2023 marked a poignant loss that altered the course of my journey. Losing my father was a heartbreaking experience that left me grappling with grief and newfound responsibilities. The void left by his absence was profound, and the weight of responsibilities that ensued demanded resilience I never knew I possessed. In the face of such monumental challenges, I realized the fragility of life and the unpredictability of the future. It became evident that while we can plan, life’s unfolding remains unpredictable.
Nurturing Learning
In the midst of grief, I discovered the power of continuous learning, kindness, and empathy. Instead of setting specific resolutions, I’ve chosen to focus on perpetual self-improvement. Learning has become a constant companion, a source of solace, and a reminder that growth is a lifelong journey. The pursuit of knowledge, whether through books, courses, or experiences, has been my way of navigating through the storm.
Cultivating Kindness
Kindness and empathy, both towards myself and others, have become guiding principles. The hardships of the past year made me acutely aware of the battles everyone is fighting, often silently. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can create ripples of positivity in a world that sometimes feels heavy with sorrow. Understanding the struggles of others has allowed me to cultivate a deeper connection with the world around me, fostering a sense of shared humanity.
Embracing Creativity
Amidst the challenges that life threw at me, I found solace and purpose in creative endeavors. The therapeutic power of self-expression led me back to a long-forgotten passion—poetry. After decades, I penned verses that echoed the emotions swirling within. This rediscovery opened the door to possibilities I had long ignored or forgotten. Perhaps, in the coming months, I might pick up a paintbrush or sketchpad, embracing the joy of creation in its various forms. The beauty of life lies not only in achieving grand milestones but also in the simple acts of self-expression that bring joy and fulfillment.
Instead of resolutions, I focus on staying busy with activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Blogging has become my creative sanctuary—a space where thoughts flow freely, and the journey of self-discovery unfolds with every written word. The act of sharing my experiences, insights, and reflections has become a form of connection, both with myself and with those who resonate with my words.
Practising Self Compassion
In a world brimming with expectations and societal pressures, the decision not to make New Year Resolutions is an act of self-compassion. I refuse to subject myself to the disappointment of unmet goals and the weight of self-imposed expectations. Life’s journey is filled with uncertainties, and I choose to navigate it with an open heart and a resilient spirit.
Celebrating the Small Victories
Life is a mixed bag of joy and sorrow , victories and defeats. I’ve learned to celebrate the small victories, finding gratitude in the everyday moments that often go unnoticed. This perspective shift has allowed me to appreciate the journey, acknowledging that growth is not always linear, and setbacks are an integral part of the process.
Why I will not make a New Year Resolution this year
I wish to remind the dear reader, my decision not to make New Year Resolutions is not a reflection of weakness or lack of ambition. It is a conscious choice to embrace the unpredictability of life, to be kind to myself in the face of challenges, and to find solace in continuous learning and creative expression. As the new year unfolds, I embark on this journey with an open heart, ready to face whatever comes my way, and to discover the untapped reservoirs of strength and resilience that lie within. Life’s uncertainties may be daunting, but within them, I find the freedom to grow, evolve, and rediscover the beauty of living authentically.
Happy New Year to you , my Dear Reader !
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