By: Dr. Taffy Hawkins- Staff Contributing Writer
Welcome to a brand-new year full of exciting possibilities. If you are like me, resolutions haven’t always “stuck”. Years ago, I wrote a book entitled Resolution Revolution as a fresh take on the old idea of setting resolutions for the year. A new year makes me feel like anything could happen. We are bold with our goals but, without a plan, never really find a way to make those goals a reality. Sometimes the plan must include a very decisive cuts. I’m here to help offer a new perspective. Grab a pen and let’s get to work!
Out with the Old
If you have ever moved, you know how daunting it can be to drag the same old things from one location to another. Imagine that, as we enter 2024, we are having to pack up everything from the previous year and haul it into the new one. More than simply packing for a trip (over-packers, raise your hand!), these are filling our lives for the year and impacting the next 365 days and beyond. But wait. If old keys don’t open new doors, how can we expect all of these old mindsets and outdated plans to serve us well in a new year? It is setting us up for failure. I want to challenge you to determine which can stay and which has to go. Be brutal! Your future self will thank you; I promise.
- 1. Mindset- Being a mental performance coach, we always start with mindset. As we know thoughts determine feelings which determine actions. Which old thought process have you been dragging around for years? Maybe it was poor “programming” from your youth or even the unkind words of an ex. These take up space in our minds yet offer us no benefit. We can reprogram our minds to imagine possibilities, recognize our strengths, and equip us with the tools to make the most of the coming year. It begins with knowing that what you imagine is possible for you!
- 2. Thoughts and Self-Talk- There is much research stating that up to 80% of our thoughts and self-talk are negative according to the National Science Foundation. Wow! What have you been saying to yourself? Is this making you feel better or worse, empowered or imprisoned? Hafiz said that, “The words we speak become the house we live in.” What kind of house do you want to “live in” for the duration of 2024 and beyond?
- 3. Physical Belongings- It is important to note that anxiety can be made worse by physical clutter. I have found this to be quite true for myself. When I am planning for a new year, I start with a relatively clean slate, editing out all of the objects that no longer serve me well in this season of my life. Keep the important things while thanking those from your past before letting them find a new home with someone else. Marie Kondo has a whole program on editing out the things that no longer bring you joy.
- 4. People- I must preface this point by saying that I love people. I love, love, love people. But there are some friendships and relationships that are just no good for us. Chances are that they have been “poisoning our waters” for too long already. Think carefully about the people that you choose (see what I did there?) to have in your life this year. It may be a difficult choice, but we almost always have a choice. Jim Rohn said that, “you are the average of the five people that you spend the most time with.” Upon reading this statement, you were either inspired or freaked out. The truth is that we often rise or fall in relation to those around us. We adopt their habits, mindsets, and behaviors…for better or worse. Thoughtfully consider carefully who will accompany you into 2024.
In a simple exercise that I use with my clients, I want you to ask yourself what areas of your life are working and what needs work. What stays and what simply must go. I want the very best for you this year. Like a new canvas, a blank sketchbook, or an empty Word document, you can take this opportunity to make this year anything that you want. Be bold with your choices and lovingly edit the things that can no longer accompany you on this journey. You can do this! Make 2024 your year!
Dr. Taffy Hawkins is an avid writer, researcher, author, speaker and performance expert. She holds a Doctorate degree in Psychology specializing in Sport and Performance Psychology, both a B.S. and M.S. in Exercise Science, and certifications in life coaching and mental performance Mastery. She began her journey into personal development when struggles in her own life left her asking how she might experience more success, adventure, and appreciation in life without compromising mental health. This journey brought her to coaching and eventually a great career help others maximize their own lives. Her fourteen years of teaching, coaching, and writing have allowed her to help many individuals overcome the mental blocks that prevent performance at the highest level. Taffy has also authored six books to date on various topics to help readers experience greater physical, mental and spiritual growth. When she is not helping others become their best self, she enjoys reading, writing, sports, traveling with her family and daydreaming about her next adventure.