Most of us are filled with resolutions at the beginning of each year, striving to do better with our
list of “shoulds” than the year before. Year after year, we make the same resolutions, hoping
that this year we will make it happen. We may find it easier to follow through on the
commitments that we make to others, but fail to adhere to our aspirations when it comes to
commitments we make to ourselves. But, why do we think that we deserve any less than that
type of dedication? This year, make the commitment to yourself that you will work toward
creating a life that is more in alignment with your authentic self. You are deserving of this level
of commitment. Some of the most important areas to evaluate include the following:
Our Relationships- Relationships lie at the the core of our lives. The stronger our relationships,
the more we experience a sense of belonging and connectedness in the world. This results in
greater happiness and reduced rates of depression and anxiety. When we are unhappy in our
relationships (i.e. we feel disconnected, there is high conflict, we are lonely, we feel chronically
misunderstood, etc.), our quality of life is diminished in a very significant way. Honestly evaluate
the quality of your relationships and make a commitment to yourself to set real boundaries
where necessary. Move away from the relationships that cause you pain, making more room in
your life for the ones that enhance your life and your wellbeing.
Connection to Self- The connection that we have to our internal self is the most important one
that we can have, yet it is the very thing that gets neglected as we become consumed with other
responsibilities. When we actually take the time to slow down and connect to our internal self,
our real self, we learn what we genuinely need in our lives in order to have authenticity. Much of
life’s distress comes from this disconnection between our authentic self and the life that we lead.
Make a commitment to yourself to slow down a little each day to connect with your internal self
so that the two have a chance to align. You will find that your life begins to take shape in ways
that are consistent with your true self and desires.
Sense of Purpose- Without a since of purpose, we lack inspiration and direction. This can lead
to a whole host of negative outcomes. This year, make a commitment to yourself to think about
what inspires you to make the very most of this beautiful life that you are given. Time waits on
no one, so tap into what gives you meaning and figure out what you need to do to cultivate more
of it in your life. If you have no idea where to start, think about the things that you loved to do as
a child. What did you gravitate toward? What mattered to you? If you have lost yourself in others
or in life’s responsibilities, connecting to your childhood essence can lead to valuable insights
here.
This year, make a commitment that you will tend to yourself in these important areas. As you do
so, you will watch your life take shape in wonderful ways that are a reflection of your real self. It
is an exciting, beautiful and overdue journey. Where will it take you?
