Here we are again, at the end of December, facing another year like a blank canvas, full of possibilities and promise. I imagine that almost everyone spends at least a few moments at the close of the year contemplating their accomplishments and their dreams.
Personally I’m not a fan of ‘New Year Resolutions’ (many studies suggest that most people give up on their resolutions by February) I prefer to take stock of my life and set goals for the new year instead. In all honesty, I don’t always hit every one of those goals, but I write them down and look at them almost every day so I always make some headway toward improving myself each year. If I live to be three thousand years old I might just make it to perfection.
Right now I’m reading a book by bestselling author Matthew Kelly that just so happens to discuss habits and this is what I read last night –
‘What are your habits? What are the things that you do every day, every week, every month? If you can tell me what your habits are, I can tell you what sort of person you are.’
Kelly goes on to explain that good habits will result in a ‘good’ future and bad habits will cause problems in the future. He reminds us that we can change our habits (which is such a blessing – and such a weight to carry) and he encourages us to take an honest look at our habits (the things we actually do every day) and where those habits are leading us.
Today is a great day to take stock of your habits. Knowing where you are now is the best first step to determining what to do next (whether you prefer resolutions or goal setting).
So today I’m issuing a challenge. Take some time to sit in a quiet place with a piece of paper and write down YOUR habits; the things you do every day, every week, every month. Then look over that list and ask yourself questions like…
‘Where will this habit take me – is that where I want to go?’
‘Will these habits help me to be the best ME possible or are they self destructive?’
You don’t have to do anything else with that list today (but save it, I might have something for you to do with it later). Just focus on giving yourself the gift of honest self reflection.
And if you took a break from your movements – pick that habit back up today! 🙂
Make your minutes matter!