The tradition of New Year’s is as ancient as civilization itself. In ancient Babylon the turning of the year coincided with mid-March and the transformation of Winter into Spring. In modern times, 153 B.C., we see the figure of Janus (January) a mystical king from early Rome appearing at the head of the calendar. With two faces, Janus could reflect on the past year and consider possibilities of the coming cycle. Janus the god of beginnings and the guardian of thresholds became a symbol for the resolutions we now associate with the holiday. Although the date for New Year’s Day varies in every culture, the theme of celebration and the customs observed to ensure a fulfilling new year are universal. 

Reinventing Yourself

New Year’s is the only holiday that celebrates the passage of time. It’s no surprise then that as we explore the last few moments of the year our thoughts can be reflective, even introspective. Inevitably our introspection leads us to consider possible ways we might improve upon our self and our life in the coming year. Thus ensues the annual ritual of making resolutions. New Year’s is a perfect time to begin the process of reinventing ourselves and in the process replace some outdated habits with fresh invigorating new experiences. Approaching the coming year as a painter would undertake a blank canvas, full of creative possibilities, can fill our life with passion fueled by a sense of natural purpose, intention and hope.
Maintaining Your Momentum
While we may start the year with great intentions for forging ahead in the most positive way possible, come mid-February we are often faced with the shocking reality that staying healthy, happy and successful is hard work. So what do we do when we start to feel the momentum and excitement of those “new” resolutions fade? What can we do to reinvigorate our commitment and make sure we stay on course for the year? Below are some simple strategies for ensuring that this year’s resolutions don’t turn into next year’s anxiety.

1. Make a plan. Break it down. What are the top five things you need to do in order to keep your resolutions rolling? What adjustments, both long-term and short-term, will need to be made in order to achieve your goal(s)?
2. Stop punishing yourself for “bad” behavior. If you get off track don’t waste time wallowing in your own vomit. Keep the self flagellations to a minimum and simply get back on track! Guilt and shame can be short term motivators but ultimately serve only to reinforce what we already know about ourselves.
3. Make the time. This is one of the biggest road blocks to success. You have to carve out the time you need to work on yourself. This should be a no-brainer given that you are your greatest resource.
4. Don’t try to save the world tomorrow. Pick realistic manageable goals that can be achieved over the short and long-term. Picking impossible goals can be a great excuse to fail. Multiple smaller successes can be just as powerful as one large achievement.
5. Motivation, motivation, motivation. Write it down. Talk about it to your friends, partner, family. Motivation keeps us clear and honest during those murky times when that extra piece of chocolate cake is calling or when we think we are just too busy to make it to class. Motivation is not static so what motivates you today may be different next week or next month. Be prepared to adapt your motivation to suit changes in your lifestyle and attitude over the course of the year. Motivation keeps our commitments fresh and invigorating!
Now then, go out there and conquer the world! Happy New Year!