Well, it's 2024.
I've been duped by myself too many times to really believe in New Year's resolutions. But I suppose being optimistic requires persistent belief in the face of repeated failures. And (I should mention) I'm trying to be more optimistic.
That desire started long before December 31st of 2023, but I suppose using the new year is a great way to make a public declaration and hold myself accountable.
So this year is going to be different; I'm going to be different.
One thing I'm planning to do differently is to create more. That means writing, playing music, recording, making stuff: all things that I truly enjoy doing, but will find excuses to avoid doing them. Stifling my creative spirit is out, and nourishing the creative spirit is in.
Another thing I'm planning to do differently is to take control of my inner monologue. I am going to recognize moments I'm experiencing self-pity (or any of the other corrosive mental patterns I can fall into), mentally intervene (whether through breathing, prayer, affirmation, or whatever), and move on. There is too much to be grateful for, and I can not allow my inner perpetual victim to hog the microphone of my mind. It's not cool, and I need to let some other voices do the talking.
And maybe this kind of connects to the previous two ideas, but I want to be more intentional in all aspects of my life. Professionally, I want to be protective of my time and structure my days to maximize my impact (positively) on others. Personally, I want to strengthen my relationships with family and friends, isolate myself less, and treat myself with kindness when I slip, grace when I fall.
In some ways, being intentional is what New Years resolutions are all about, so that's the theme of this year. But at the same time, I have to be kind to myself and allow my plans to change. We're all living in draft form, and we all deserve the freedom to let our narratives evolve.
So that's what I'm thinking for 2024. What about you?
Comments