by 
Start the New Year with reflections, not resolutions. Why? It’s a simple reason – because they are much more effective.
When we reflect, we think deeply and carefully about something. Reflection is serious thought and consideration. We can reflect on where we have been, where we are now, and where we want to be in our lives. Self-reflection leads to good planning, goal setting, and general self-improvement. However, our plans and goals are not set in stone. They will change as we change, grow as we grow, to be added to, updated, and improved upon.
Resolute is not even a verb. It is not an action. It is a description meaning unwavering. A resolution is a firm decision is to do or not do something. It is set in stone. And that is the problem with a New Year’s resolution. Stick to it or don’t stick to it. There is no in between. We are winners if we stick to it and losers if we don’t. The odds are 50/50.
Don’t get me wrong, there is a place for resolutions. We started our country with declarations and resolutions – with unwavering stands. They were and still are good and necessary for law and government and to publicly determine right from wrong. They are just not the right venue for setting personal goals on New Year’s Eve. Resolutions have nothing to do with growth.
So make a list in pencil, not stone. Set goals and make new plans as the new year starts. Remember that we are not perfect, so we won’t always act perfectly. Mistakes will be made, but our strength is to reflect on what is not working and why, and finding more supports to our goals to make them achievable (instead of beating ourselves up and giving up). The strong person continues on the path even after stumbling.
“Remind yourself that you cannot fail at being yourself.” ~ Wayne Dyer ~ Happy New Year!
