Reflect like nobody's watching!

Lately I’ve been reflecting a lot, as one does during the holidays.  The cozier winter months to seem to really align with looking inward.  Wrapped up in a sweater or blanket (I prefer blanket- I feel it gives me better control of my temperature), cozy weather (OK I live in Los Angeles so sometimes it’s still blazing hot.  It’s raining right now though so…moving on), Holiday movies, delicious warm drinks, eggnog coffee creamer… you can really create all the vibes for a nice reflection sesh.  I’m also a giant introvert so any excuse to stay inside has me all for it.

All of this reflection made me realize: Most of my major transitions have been at the end of the year.

In one transition, I was blindsided and ended up losing a group of people I had come to know as my family (nobody died- I was just ostracized).  In the other, I had hit my emotional rock bottom.  I’m not sure why they both seemed to have occurred towards the end of the year, but I’m almost glad they did. 

Everyone talks about the new year being a great time to start new, start fresh.  Dance as if no one’s watching! Manifest! Clean up your act! (Ok so nobody really says those exact things, but you know what I mean). 

On the flip side, taking up a new, positive habit or hobby can start TODAY rather than waiting for an ear marker.  However, I enjoy a good symbol for health and change and I embrace the stereotype of the new year.

During my toughest transitions, it was nice to have the start of the new year to really let go of the past.  It served as a catalyst that I could rely on to stop beating myself up over things I did or didn’t do, things I said or didn’t say, and the sadness that ensued.  I looked at January 1st almost like a self-baptism: “I forgive myself and those who I’ve felt wronged me for the past, and I’m starting new for the future.”

PLUS, it feels pretty cool to be able to say, “Oh I haven’t done that since last year,” and “Ok but that was last year.” ;)

Tell me: Do you make New Year’s Resolutions OR do you say “f*ck it, I’m going to make everyday a resolution!”?

Live and let live,

Shelby