Steps to Take You Closer to a Truer Version of Yourself in 2023

Hey Friends!
You may be thinking “Darn it! We are almost at the end of another year!”  Or perhaps, you’re excited for a fresh start.

As the year ends, it’s natural to reflect on what went right and what went wrong over the last 12 months. We are often our toughest critics, focusing on the negative and perhaps entirely missing or downplaying the positive. Here’s something I share with my clients:  There’s never a perfect time to re-examine where you want to go next.  There’s no need to wait until we clink our champagne glasses to make a resolution to change or map out our next steps.  We can start right now.

All I ask is that you don’t get overwhelmed as you go through the following list of parts of your life to renew and refresh. Instead of making unrealistic resolutions, prioritize a few buckets that need attention. Take actions that will bring you closer to balance and happiness.

Sometimes, looking back we realize that the most important thing we accomplished was that we made time to simply enjoy the beauty of life. Bravo!

If you do nothing else, promise me this:  Start to think about where you are, physically, emotionally, and mentally.  What changes can you make to become the best version of you in the new year?  Remember, there’s no need to tackle all of these at once. Just focus on a few.

Fun/play
Life is precious and short.  Make the time each day, even if it’s for 15 minutes, to get out and have fun. The pandemic may have thrown your schedule out of whack, but it’s time to reconnect to your authentic self, your hobbies or challenge yourself to something new.  Research has found that mentally challenging yourself stimulates brain function and helps to curb anxiety and depression.

Friendships/family
Friends, sometimes more so than family, are an important part of our health and happiness as we age.  In fact, some research has uncovered that true, deep friendships are just as important to your health as exercise and nutrition.  But we’re not talking Facebook friends.  We mean close friends that help you become the best version of yourself.  Check in with your closest friends.  Put aside time to connect with them. Re-examine your social circle to see if each person shares the same priorities and uplifts you. There’s a great quote by Jim Rohn:  “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”  Choose wisely.

Mental health
No matter what stage of life you’re in, your mental health is essential to wellness. We all want to attain our fullest potential, work productively, cope effectively with our core stressors, and contribute to our communities. But often we can’t do it alone.  Nearly 10% of Americans suffer from depression.  Close to 1/3 of adults reported that anxiety or stress is completely overwhelming most days.  It’s crucial that we avoid keeping things inside.  Ask for help, whether it’s from a professional, or someone in your inner circle.    

Physical/Spiritual health
The Center for Disease Control shared that “regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Being physically active can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.  Find a physical activity that brings you joy.  This could be as simple as a walk around the neighborhood.  Pick something and commit to it. Consider adding meditation or yoga practice to your routine.  There are some wonderful apps out there, like Headspace, for meditation.  Try a few different local yoga studios to find a teacher you can connect with or take a virtual class on YouTube. These practices focus on creating space to think and hit the pause button.  It’s a chance to reconnect to your higher power, your body, mind, and spirit. 

Finances
The COVID-19 pandemic has completely changed many people’s financial status. Now that we’re post-pandemic, it’s time to examine where you are and set financial goals. Use the next few months to evaluate and align your finances with your new priorities. Start by tracking your spending, building an emergency fund, and paying down high interest credit card debts. 

Career/education 
Define what success means to you and review your satisfaction and progress in these areas. Do you need to make a change or enhance your education or career goals? Maybe, now is the time to take that leap of faith. There are wonderful career coaches to help determine what a good fit is based on your strengths and passions.  Many colleges offer virtual evening and weekend classes, making it possible to obtain additional certifications and degrees.  If you decide to head back to school, you’re not alone. A recent study showed that 42 percent of adults who are considering going back to school are “simply interested in learning new skill sets and 39 percent want to change their career path.” 

Giving/contributions 
Giving can mean so many different things.  It can mean providing love or other emotional support.  It can also be a monetary donation or volunteering. Either way, it can be a powerful contribution to your personal happiness. 

By focusing on a smaller, more manageable number of goals, it will be easier to find balance while cultivating a sense of calmness. It’s not a sprint. It’s a marathon. Start with baby steps, celebrate your wins, and monitor your progress along your journey of life.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help. A transitional, life or career coach can help provide an outside perspective and keep you accountable. 

Giving can mean so many different things.  It can mean providing love or other emotional support.  It can also be a monetary donation or volunteering. Either way, it can be a powerful contribution to your personal happiness. 

By focusing on a smaller, more manageable number of goals, it will be easier to find balance while cultivating a sense of calmness. It’s not a sprint. It’s a marathon. Start with baby steps, celebrate your wins, and monitor your progress along your journey of life.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help. A transitional, life or career coach can help provide an outside perspective and keep you accountable. 

Cheers! Here’s to you becoming the best version of yourself.  I’m here to help.