A Different Way to Begin the New Year

Five, four, three, two, one…

And here comes the forgotten hope for change—the one that resurfaced while we consciously postponed it, day after day, for at least half a year. We feel a sense of euphoria, clarity, and lightness—one might say—as we leave the old behind and move toward the new!

Of course, pencil meets paper, and the list for the bright new year begins to take shape.

But what kind of list is this, really, one that still seems to be wearing the wrapping paper of Christmas gifts?

If I gently tear the wrapping—just a little—what will be revealed?

A big want, full of warmth and vitality?

Or a demanding, heavy must (one that most likely isn’t even mine)?

What if we were to begin with one, two, three, and so on—and allow “one” to be a deep clearing?

With our intention and a hand on the heart.

Set the notebook aside.

Would you allow your heart to express itself freely and be an active listener?

It sounds bold.

Perhaps just as bold as those lists filled with big musts that, by the end of January, leave me with hollow hopes and guilty inner voices saying that, once again. (And between us, there’s a grain of truth here: this guilt knows well that as long as must is in charge, there is no room for the heart.)

Pause for a moment.

Take a breath.

The whole year—quite literally—lies ahead of you.

After a slow, warm, indulgent exhale, ask yourself:

What do I WANT

to feel,

to experience,

to give,

to receive,

to be?

And if the little voice begins to whisper, place it on mute for two minutes and bring your attention to your heart.

What does this heart want?

Follow it.

Remember: “The path will appear before each step you take.”

Trust.