It seems like the years go by faster and faster – I remember the end of 2014 like it was a week ago! (*cue schmoney dance*) Like many others, I enjoy reflecting around this time of year but tend to find myself falling into the trap of setting targets for the New Year that end up with you throwing in the towel by the time it gets to February! So, I’ve come up with 5 must have attitudes for the New Year to help along your journey.
Avoid seeking social media approval
I noticed a trend on my Facebook feed, consisting of people doing good deeds for the public, which did make a change from the usual engagements and baby scans (I’m happy for you guys, really). However this got me thinking, if we were in the ‘90s when internet was scarce, would they still have donated to the needy? One of the rules I live by is expressed in Matthew 6:4: “Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” It’s important to ensure your heart and motives are in the right place.
Another thing – if you like a like a picture of yourself, post it! It takes a surprising amount of confidence to do this. Don’t think to worry about how many ‘likes’ you’ll get, or get a racing pulse until you get the coveted over 11 likes. Social media anxiety isn’t worth it. Just slay!
A Forgiving heart
I’m working on this myself and I’ve come to realise that forgiveness isn’t solely a one-off action, it’s an attitude. Being a forgiving person is no simple task – it’s definitely easier said than done. Forgiveness is not an overnight task either, it takes time to put things into perspective. Don’t be afraid to pray about it too – after all, it was Jesus on the cross that asked God to forgive those that crucified him whilst he was in excruciating pain, so rest assured – He knows and understands.
Ultimately, life is far too short to hold grudges. It is important to forgive the wrong that person may have done and move on with your life. There’s nothing more refreshing than a clean heart free of resent.
B. forgiving someone doesn’t mean you’re obligated to let them back in your life.
The ‘one step at a time’ approach
But it’s so warm and comfy and I don’t wanna leaaaave! Many times it’s easy to fall into the trap of living life like we’re stuck in bed constantly pressing snooze. Our routines become fixed and it becomes difficult to break out because we humans are creatures of habit. It actually takes 66 days to form a habit, so at a first glance it may seem difficult to take up a new hobby or go for a run twice a week.
The easiest thing to do is to add a new activity to your calendar once a week and slowly intensify it. This breaks down your goal into simple steps.
For example: if the goal is “Get to conversational level in Spanish” don’t dive into the deep end immediately as the changes are you’ll crash and burn by February. Start off by saying “I will complete one lesson every week.” As you increase your competency, you will find that you’ll naturally increase the amount of time you spend learning to even 3 times a week.
The same goes with the gym, an age-old favourite. If you start by going there once a week, you’ll eventually find it becomes easier to raise the bar to twice weekly and even more if you dare!
Appreciate your parent(s)
As I’ve gotten older I’ve come to realise that raising children is no mean feat in the slightest. Now that I do earn a living, I’ve tried to give back as much as I can. Whilst I can’t necessarily buy them a house or a new Mercedes, my words are one of the strongest gifts I can give. Simple things like saying you appreciate them, doing a chore you wouldn’t normally do when you visit, or simply just surprise visiting can continue to encourage parent(s).
Experiences > Materials
I started deprioritising new outfits and gadgets for ticketed events a couple years ago and my quality of life has significantly improved since. I had a jam packed year with live music, travel and memories that lasted and also had a hand in moulding me as a person. I always get wanderlust when I look at my online feeds and see people immersing into a new culture abroad. I’d highly recommend packing a bag and exploring a city you’ve always wanted to go to – it doesn’t have to be far nor expensive! The pictures and resulting memories will last longer than a new LBD, I assure you.
By Chinazum Ukata