New Year’s resolutions are tough to stick to. Perhaps it is best to consider a few attitude changes that will help start off the new year on the right foot. These are small changes in the mindset that are not so hard to make but which can make all the difference breaking some vicious circles. It’s all about bringing it to consciousness, and then a positive domino effect is certain to follow.
Slow Down
In order to enter the new year energized and with a fresh mind it is necessary to slow down. The holidays can be a stressful time if errands and excessive commitments aren’t cut out. Taking the time to observe what is going on around and meditating can help take a lot of extra weight off the shoulders. Slow down and then flow in. Maybe you’ll even float on onto 2017.
Perfection Isn’t Attainable
Things will never happen the way they are idealized. Bringing your romanticizing to a halt goes together with realizing that perfection is not a human possibility. This awareness is, by itself, enough to take a lot off your shoulders.
No One’s Here to Answer Our Expectations
Everyone has a unique story filled with so many personal goals, drawbacks, and subtle personality traces that it is simply impossible that they will fulfill anyone else’s expectations. Realizing that is a mature way of dealing with life in general. As much as you are not here to live up to anyone else’s expectations, realize that this goes for others as well.
Rest
Take naps, power naps, and long ones. Buy a hammock! Enjoy the warmth of a blanket and a fireplace. Cuddle up with your children, nephews, nieces, grandparents, pets, mom, and dad. Rest! That’s the best way to prevent impulsive attitudes and grumpiness.
Forgive, Now!
For some, forgiveness is difficult. However, once you realize that perfection doesn’t really exist and that people make mistakes, forgiveness becomes easier to give and to accept. The holidays are a perfect time to take the lead, make the first move and then, once again, take that weight off your shoulders. The holidays can be a great opportunity to get ready to enter the new year with a light and fresh attitude.
Giving is More Important than the Gift
Be happy about the fact that someone thought of you even if they got the present all wrong. Yeah, it’s hard not to take it personal when thinking that that person should know better. But again, expectations are the parents of frustration. Simple as that.
People Change When They Can, and By Example
People are always changing and growing throughout their lives, but only in rare cases is that change caused by someone else. Most of the time, people change because they want to. It isn’t up to you whether a person should change or not, and you shouldn’t try to force someone to change if he or she doesn’t want to. It will only lead to frustration for both parties. The best you can do is act according to your conscience and hope for the best. Hope isn’t expectation. Not accepting wrongful behaviors is a right everyone has, but trying to force someone to change will most likely result in frustration.
Stop Before It’s Too Late
Yes, this is about drinking. At the parties or in life in general. Embracing moderation is always good. Realize the consequences. The good and the bad ones are inevitable in life.
Create a Budget
This one has to do with over romanticizing. With drinking too much, too. Also with having excessive expectations. It all goes together. It’s great to live life like there’s no tomorrow. It can be very immature, too. Living within a budget solves at least fifty percent or anybody's problems.
Get Spiritual
Another touchy subject. Enough to say that all humans agree on certain subjects like love, forgiveness, grace, and gratitude. Getting spiritual doesn’t mean you have to change your religious beliefs. It’s simply becoming more aware of the moment. Enjoy watching a sunset, pay attention to your breathing, open up your heart. These little things can go a long way in helping you reach a peaceful, stress-free, new you for the new year.
Silence is great advice, but it is human to share experience. Smiling is the best reaction to most situations. In order to relax and welcome the new year, these little reminders may be useful. It is stuff you already know, so bring them up to the conscious part of the brain and have a happy holiday and a wonderful, peaceful New Year.
Has this article been inspiring to you? How are you planning to welcome 2017? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below or through our Facebook page.
