9 Impactful Ways to Start 2019 Great
A New Year is always a sign of promise — a new day, a fresh start, and brand-new opportunity to take on things that may have been a challenge in the past. I wanted to start 2019 by sharing some ways I’m learning to find strength and begin each year — and each day — the best way I can.
1. Start changing your mindset. Focus on the positive. With all the negative press about politics and the environment, it’s natural to feel hopeless. That’s why staying positive is not just a platitude. It’s a necessity when it comes to having hope and believing in the possibilities. This video from Everyone In, which highlights real progress being done to get people off the streets, helped me reflect on the good that is happening in the world right now. Watch it here.
2. Practice gratitude. Gratitude is essential for perspective and for overcoming times when you’re paralyzed by shame, fear, anger and self-pity. Learn more about how to be grateful in my latest blog here.
3. Find community. American educator Dean Ornish said, “The need for connection and community is primal, as fundamental as the need for air, water, and food.” I see this more and more in my studies and my work with others. People need a sense of belonging and in reaching out and sharing. If you’ve been being isolated, either through circumstance or choice, call up a friend or invite someone to dinner. Put yourself out there, even if it’s difficult.
4. Help someone going through recovery. In this day and age, chances are you know someone struggling with addiction or in a stage of recovery. Take the opportunity to show you care. Here are five things you can do to make the process easier for your loved one. It all starts by being willing to take the time to listen and ask a simple question: “What happened to you?”
5. Volunteer. Just ask yourself “What do you dream of doing for others?” A few hours a week or even a month can meet a huge demand and improve the lives of people around you.
6. Donate. Keep it simple and follow your heart. It all matters!
7. Learn something new. When we learn, we grow. We challenge our minds and engage our critical thinking, which can improve our moods. Read something educational or learn a new skill or hobby.
8. Practice kindness. Aim to do something nice for someone and make it part of your routine. Whether it’s once a day, once a week, or once a month, pay a compliment, send a note, or make a small gesture. Whatever you can think of, be intentional and don’t hold back.
9. Spread the word. Finally, start the new year strong by sharing insights. Share this blog and my podcast with someone who needs support and guidance. Hearing from others in their same shoes can help them see that they’re not alone.
For more information about getting in the right frame of mind to overcome challenges and live each day with grace and strength, contact me. Happy New Year — Let’s believe in big change together!
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