So here we are, staring face-to-face with 2022. So will it be friend or foe? After living through the challenges of 2020 and 2021, it is sometimes hard to believe that 2022 will offer us anything different. But, alas, let's count “positivity'' as one of our resolutions and start this year off with a hopeful attitude!
As we close out one year and look forward to the next, we are often faced with both reflection on the past but also plans for the new habits we are going to create and the goals we are going to achieve. The start of the year is the perfect time to set the pace for the year ahead…and let’s make it a good one! Boy, do we deserve it! So here are some tips on how to start January off right and plan for an optimistic year ahead.
Create a List of All Your Past Accomplishments
What better way to get the year started than by reflecting on what you are proud of from the year before. It is human nature to set your sights on what is next…bigger and better. But if you don't appreciate what you have already achieved, you will never fully-appreciate your current journey. Creating a list of everything you accomplished over the past year, big or small, is a great way to reflect but also a catalyst for goal setting.
Create a List of the Biggest Lessons You Have Learned
Sometimes we learn things the hard way, sometimes we learn through experience and sometimes we learn through observation…regardless I am sure there were a slew of lessons learned in 2021. Reflection is the perfect starting point for learning something new, making better decisions and putting your best foot forward.
Book Important Appointments 'Now'
If 2021 taught us anything, procrastination and putting things off is so easy to fall into. If you have been putting off doctors appointments, going to the dentist, or getting your vehicle(s) serviced, January is the perfect time to start booking them. You have a clear calendar and a clear head, and although it may seem like there is never enough time to get everything done, the bottom line is that your health and safety are always of utmost importance.
Clean Out Your Wardrobe
This is, by far, my favorite thing to do in the new year. Decluttering and purging. It feels so good to get a fresh start at the beginning of the year, even if it is merely getting rid of some clothes you haven’t worn in a while. Letting go is so cathartic…even when it comes to those size 4 jeans that you last wore in college but hoping they will fit again one day. It is also natural to fall out of love with some of your clothing pieces so why not make some room for something new and donate what you no longer want. Not only are you getting a fresh start, but you are also doing a good deed! What a way to start the year.
Upgrade Your Surroundings
Sometimes a new pillow, a desk plant, or a comfy chair are all it takes to give your space the boost it needs to put you in “creative mode”. Even upgrading some of your grooming items - a sleek hair dryer or new makeup, can have a huge impact on self-image and at the same time won’t break the bank.
Clean Your Home
Stop the groaning!! I know this is more of a chore than anything but did you know that there is a superstition that a happy new year relies on the cleanliness of your home??!! After the past two years of despicable viruses, I expect everyone to start cleaning ASAP!! All joking aside, taking some time to clean from under your bed, declutter your fridge or simply give your clothes a fresh wash, this can really help you feel renewed and ready to take on the new year!
Kick Those Hindering Habits
A new year is the best time to lay bad habits to rest. There is no need to hold onto anything that hasn’t been both positive and a tangible addition to your livelihood, spirit or bank account. Putting an end to bad habits is a great way to have a fresh start.
Resolutions…Yay or Nay
Resolutions have a bad rap…losing weight, quitting smoking, etc. When we don't accomplish what we set out for in the first week, we are usually ready to throw in the towel. But it doesn't have to be that way. There is nothing wrong with a yearly reminder (no matter where we are in the year) to reboot and try to do better. Remember no one is perfect, use your new year’s resolution as a way to state your intentions and focus on your goals…even if you aren’t ready to tackle it until June. Going astray from your resolution is okay as long as you use it as a compass to bring yourself back to where you intend to be at some point again throughout the year.
Envision Your Future
Dream big, look far and wide, reach as high as you can and set your sights on all of it. Organizing and mapping out your goals for 2022 is the first step toward success. Figure out your thoughts, dreams and desires for the year early on, so you have a solid 12 months to work toward them.
As we’ve just closed out a challenging year and are looking toward the future, it is a beautiful opportunity to open ourselves up to the endless possibilities that reside in the new year. Take a look back on 2021 and figure out what worked and what didn't, think about what didn't go as planned and what could be improved. Use those reflections to begin building your master plan for 2022. Who knows? It could be the most impactful, abundant and exceptional year yet!
By Melanie Akerberg
People Happiness Manager
Bliss Virtual Services