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Marcia Davis Taylor is a licensed master social worker in the state of South Carolina. The majority of her career has been spent working in the area o...
 
 
 
 

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!

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The dawn of a new year is usually the time when we think about how we would like for things to be in our lives, make resolutions for change, and then make plans for the future.  In some respects, it might be compared to spring cleaning in January - get rid of what you don't want in order to make room for what you do want.

Step One:  Love Yourself

When was the last time you looked at yourself in a mirror?  I mean really looked at YOU - not to check your hair or makeup, or to complain about a physical characteristic that you don't like about yourself, but to say, "I love you!"  When was the last time you journeyed within, looking deeper than the physical and embracing what is wonderful about you - your mind, your heart, your soul and your spirit?

If you haven't done this in a while, or if you have never done it at all, begin 2009 with a renewed commitment to actively love, respect and embrace your wonderful, beautiful self!  For many of us, expressing what we like about ourselves or tooting our own horns doesn't come easy.  However, you are "wonderfully and fearfully" made and you owe it to yourself to celebrate and embrace all that is you!

Step Two: Spring Clean Your Life

Have you ever thought about "spring cleaning" your life?  Spring cleaning is an age-old ritual that helps us to prepare for new growth and new life after a dormant period.  Consider this:  new life is waiting just beneath the surface of "the soil," waiting to emerge into the myriad possibilities that can be your life.  What do you want to change?  What do you want to do differently?  Who do you want to become?

It may be helpful to first examine what is motivating you to make a change.  For example, do you want to reduce stress, regain control of your life, or increase productivity?  Once you understand your own motivations you can create a targeted action plan to begin making changes in your life.  Whether your goals are related to your health, your personal relationships or your career, the following tips can be applied to a variety of goals and life situations, and can help you map out your road to success.

Step Three:  Take Action

Use a journal to record your thoughts and track your progress

  • Create a personal mission statement
  • Write down your goals and intentions
  • Identify the obstacles that may be holding you back
  • Keep a record of your successes
  • Count your blessings and record what you are grateful for

Focus on the positive

  • Surround yourself with positive people
  • Visualize where you want to end up and what that will look like
  • Use affirmations and positive self-talk to help you stay on track

Take care of yourself

  • Relax
  • Enrich your mind
  • Nourish your spirit
  • Love yourself for who you are right now

Revisit your goals periodically and make mid-course corrections

  • Let go of unreasonable expectations - your own and other's
  • Believe in yourself and don't give up!

If you truly want greater good in your life, what are you willing to let go of or get rid of?  Take action by moving out of your life the people and things which no longer serve you well.  Limit the amount of time you spend with negative people, especially those who do not support your goals.  Work diligently to replace self-defeating habits with positive behaviors.  Embark on this process with the faith that you can have what you really want and desire.  Say yes to yourself, affirm your worth and your place in the universe, and know that your goals and dreams are as important as those of anyone else.

Celebrate the new year with a new you - make 2009 your best year yet!

Affirmation for 2009

"I am willing to remove all clutter from my mind, heart and spirit.  I will let go of people and relationships that no longer serve my good.  This will open up new and sacred space in my life, which will be filled with love, joy and prosperity."

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