As the calendar flips to another year, the air is filled with the usual buzz of resolutions and self-improvement goals. While I personally think setting aside time to reflect on what we want to manifest or improve on in the new year is a beautiful ritual we should all embrace, I also totally get why many people feel put off by the very idea of it.
Let's face it – resolutions often fade faster than shooting stars, leaving us feeling unfulfilled and stuck in a cycle of unmet expectations and disappointment. Why is this? The answer could be that we often set ambitious goals that lack a strong foundation, being rooted more in external pressures or fleeting trends than in a genuine connection with our deepest desires and values.
But what if this year, we ditched the resolutions and embraced a soul-aligned journey that would lead to lasting fulfilment and a deeper connection with our soul's calling?
Consider this: What if 2024 became the year of real shifts and transformation? What if, instead of just another list of fleeting wishes, we made a solid roadmap based on soulful foundations?
So, how does one embark on this soul-aligned journey? Here are a few key steps to guide you on your way:
Stillness Is Necessary: Winter is slowing us down for a reason. It offers a unique opportunity for stillness and rest. It's during this time that we can press pause on the rush of life, dedicating our attention and energy to listening, taking inventory, doing maintenance, and planning for the journey ahead in alignment with our soul's calling.
Honour The Year That Was: My favorite ritual with my partner is to look back through all of our collected photos of the past year. We start from January 1st, revisiting everything we have done – the places we visited, the memories, the friends. It's all too easy to forget! This fills us up with deep gratitude and a sense of accomplishment, reminding us of the victories, the battles we didn't win, and most importantly, how much we grew over the past year.
Reflect on Your Values: Resolutions often focus on external achievements, but what about the values that guide your life? Reflect on what truly matters to you. What passions, dreams, or callings have you been brushing aside? Aligning your goals with your values creates a more profound and lasting transformation.
Chart Your Course to Success: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said, "A goal without a plan is just a wish." We must define a plan that will help us get to where we want to be. In order to manifest our vision, we must outline short-term goals and actionable steps, ensuring success and not another fizzling shooting star.
Embrace Small Acts of Courage: Transformation doesn't always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it's in the small, courageous steps we take every day. What small acts of bravery can you incorporate into your routine to honor your soul's calling? It might be saying no to something that doesn't serve you or expressing your true feelings.
Cultivate Self-Compassion: In the pursuit of change, remember to be kind to yourself. Transformation is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the inevitable bumps along the road with self-compassion. Each stumble is an opportunity to learn and grow.
So, dear souls, are you ready to make 2024 a year of profound inner transformation? Ditch the resolutions and embark on a journey of self-discovery and authenticity.
If so, I am ready to hold your hand and the space for you to make this happen in our January Winter Reverie Virtual Retreat.
Join us to Rest, Restore, Reflect, and Design Your Soul-Aligned Vision for 2024. And if you can't make it live - don't worry - there will be a version you can do in your own time, at your own pace.
Let us know how you feel in the comments!