A Fresh Start

It's a new year, and whether or not we set resolutions or goals, we tend to envision a fresh start. I'm grateful for the time I spent with a mental health counselor, who provided space to reflect on my life and how I became the person I am today. It was a safe place to build self-awareness and a sounding board that offered gentle guidance as I explored which parts of myself I could be proud of and celebrate, which characteristics I wanted to grow and mature in, and what was no longer serving me and needed to be released.

What does a fresh start look like for you? Find a quiet place and take five minutes or so to think about what you want your life to look like. Be gentle with yourself. This is not a time to judge or shame yourself, but a time to celebrate what you can celebrate and to decide to release what is limiting you or holding you back. Remember, there is no such thing as perfection. If perfection is your ideal, you will always be disappointed. Instead, think about friends, family members, or others you respect, and consider which characteristics they possess that you would like to develop in yourself. Be realistic, but challenge yourself, knowing there is always something we can improve.

Where do you start? We don't know what we don't know. Without taking time for self-reflection, we can't grow in self-awareness, and without self-awareness, we can't identify which changes will make the biggest impact in our lives. Focus on small changes that move you in the direction of what you ideally envision for your life. Prayer, journaling, and resources such as books or podcasts aimed at helping you grow in self-awareness can be helpful. You might also consider working with a trusted friend or family member, coach, pastor, or mental health counselor.

How do you build and maintain momentum? As you begin, identify what is truly important to you. Narrow this down to your three core values, and measure your daily choices against them. Choices aligned with your values will likely move you toward what you ultimately envision for your life. As you make small changes, you will begin to feel a positive shift and build momentum that is internally driven by your values, creating a life that brings you greater peace, joy, and fulfillment.

~Nicole Hutchison, PT, CSCS, Integrative Health Coach