I love that time of year when everything slows down a little after Christmas, leaving us with a week of enjoying the decorations and lights and gathering with family and friends. It can often be a time of reflection, of the year coming to a close and the promise of a new year on the horizon. Some see this as a clean slate, and a refreshed feeling comes over them. Others see it as the time to make resolutions, promises to themselves to be better. To do better. To live better.
"I resolve to....." they say. Thinking out loud in list form, all of the things that they want to change in the new year. I see nothing wrong with this. Even with lifes obstacles, it's always a good feeling to know that we can become a new version, better than before.
But, I want to say that I think we're often too hard on ourselves.
You can't climb a mountain, you say? That's okay. How about just going for a walk first. A brisk walk where you can clear your head, breathe in the fresh air, and get the muscles moving.
You can't quit the job that you don't enjoy because you have bills to pay and jobs are scarce these days, you say? That's okay. You can pick a few things that make you dislike your job, and attempt to change them for the better. I know this is easier said than done, but it's worth a try, isn't it? Beyond that, keep your eyes open for new positions that might open in the field that you actually want to work in. Then, of course, be brave. Submit your resume. Try. You lose nothing when you try.
You can't travel to far off countries like you've always dreamed about, you say? Because it's expensive, right? I hear you, believe me. So try to put just a little bit of money away each payday. Even if the amount is tiny, it does grow over time. Eventually you may be standing under the Eiffel Tower, looking up at that glorious "tallest structure in Paris".
Nothing is impossible.
Just be kind to yourself. You first, then let the kindness overflow to friends, family and even strangers. Relax. Take a nap! Read a book on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Go swimming in the summer and camping in the fall. (if you enjoy that of course).
I know people that run on full cylinder every waking hour of the day. It's hard for them to unwind, or slow down, or relax. I myself would recommend yoga, but I know it's not for everyone. Have you tried it? Get a mat, put on comfortable workout clothes, stretch, breathe....give it a go. You may be surprised at how wonderful you feel after a yoga session. And the great part of this is, you can do it at home if you don't want to go to a structured class. Try.
I'll be spending the remaining days of 2013 in the Music City with my family. Nashville is beautiful any time of the year, but especially around the holidays. The last time I was there, (2012) I ran into the King of Rock 'n Roll, maybe I will again!
I hope that wherever you may be when 2014 arrives, that you are safe and happy, surrounded by loved ones or friends.
Best wishes for the New Year friend, it's going to be a good one!
See you soon,
Tiffany
PS For the latest recipe I tried for Breakfast at Tiffany's, go here: http://www.cookincanuck.com/2012/10/baked-egg-breakfast-casserole-with-mushrooms-spinach-salsa-recipe/
A Breakfast Strata so delicious it melts in your mouth!
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