We can all be sure that ‘resolutions’ of one sort or another are being made on many levels as we head into the start of the New Year. Some may be about giving up or letting go of habits, thoughts, indulgences others may be about starting something new, instilling a new, healthier relationship with one or more aspects of our lives.
What sits at the heart of this practise? It is believed that the Babylonians were the first to make New Year’s resolutions over 4,000 years ago when the start of the New Year coincided with Spring and the emergence of new crops. It was the Romans who redesignated the start of the year as January rather than March and as a result have taken us away from the natural cycles and rhythms established by Mother Nature. As the centuries have unfolded we also hear of Knights renewing their vows and making pledges to their King and country.
So as we all contemplate this conscious time of reflection and renewal it presents us with an opportunity to go deeper. To go beyond the obvious of ‘dry January’ or no chocolate and take a deeper look at what needs realigning, renewal or indeed needs to be started within our own lives. We can afford ourselves the space to check in on who we are, how we show up and what commitment we can make to play our part in the greater good.
As we undertake that reflection, it is also great practice not just to work from a ‘deficiency’ or ‘improvement’ perspective, valuable though these are, but also to acknowledge, appreciate and be grateful for the things we have learnt, contributed, the person we have become as a result of the previous year or period.
The practise of resolutions approached with true reflection, insight and appreciation can form a substantive part of our own commitment to ourselves, our leadership and our place in the world. Maybe some of these questions could be useful:
- What do I appreciate most about myself?
- What does my inner voice invite me to hear more clearly?
- What recurring signs and symbols are pointing me toward a new pathway or shift of approach?
- What have I learnt that I wish to consolidate in a new way?
- How could I support myself, mind, body, emotions and spirit more effectively?