Beyond Resolutions: Celebrating the Now with “Appreciation over Improvement”
Hey, Reviving Roots community!
Here we are in January, feeling that fresh breeze of a new year. But let's not rush into setting those resolutions just yet. Our mantra for this bright new beginning? "Appreciation over Improvement." It's time to break the cycle of self-critique and start celebrating the marvelous beings we already are. Let's wrap ourselves in the comfort of our collective journey, acknowledging where we've been as the foundation for where we're headed.
Honoring Our Past Selves
Reflecting on the year gone by, let's toast to our resilience, our growth, and the multitude of small victories we've achieved. Our past selves carried us through challenges and triumphs alike—shaping the vibrant community we are today. Think about it, each of us, like our very own Mariah, has navigated through the storms to emerge stronger, more compassionate. So here's to you, 2023 self—you've earned your stripes, and it's time we honor them.
The Cost of Overlooking Now
Chasing the 'next big thing' can blind us to the beauty of now, leaving us feeling eternally incomplete. But what if we flipped the script? Your current self is not just a rough draft of who you'll become; you're a masterpiece in this moment. Recognize your worth, your thoughts, your emotions—right here, right now. They're not just stepping stones; they're the very path of your journey.
Gratitude as a Relationship Builder with Our Goals
Our dreams and goals are important, no doubt, but let's foster a relationship with them grounded in gratitude. When we count our blessings, we build a loving bridge to our aspirations. Try this: every day, pinpoint three things you're grateful for. It might be the supportive smile from a friend or the simple pleasure of a warm cup of tea. This practice can reshape the way we view our ambitions, infusing our path with positivity.
Continuity and Compassion
The 'you' from 2023 hasn't expired—far from it! You're an ongoing narrative, a story that's unfolding with each sunrise. This journey we're on calls for a gentle touch, a compassionate approach as we grow and stretch towards the light. Growth isn't a race; it's a rhythm, a dance that respects the pace of our own heartbeat. So be kind to yourself, and remember that every step is part of your beautiful dance.
Redefining the New Year
The new year isn't a commandment; it's an open-ended question that you get to answer whenever you feel moved to do so. It's not about when the clock strikes midnight; it's about when the moment strikes you. Let's uncouple the arrival of January from the pressure to transform overnight. Instead, let's cherish each day as an opportunity for growth, joy, and, most of all, appreciation, at our own tempo.
As we intertwine our lives within this glorious community, let's carry this with us: BE KIND TO YOURSELF THROUGHOUT YOUR SEASONS OF GROWTH. Every step you take is a celebration of growth wrapped in gratitude.
