Let me start by saying I do not believe in making New Year resolutions. I find too many people make very generalized goals such as "I am going to lose weight this year or I am going to quit smoking" without any plan of how they are going to achieve those goals. What often happens, is that after a month or so the drive to obtain the goals decreases and eventually there is no follow through. Then an individual may berate themselves over yet another "failure" which causes decreased self-esteem, frustration, and sometimes depression.
However, that does not mean I don't believe in starting the New Year with an optimistic view. I find that inspirational quotes by the legendary poet, lecturist, and essayist, Ralph Waldo Emerson, reflect the power an individual has in creating and determining their own destiny.
"The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be. "
This quote instructs us that we determine the paths we choose to follow in life. It states that we as individuals create our own destiny. I'm not saying that outside factors can not influence our choices but ultimately we make the choice on how we respond to those factors. Some ideas to help find that destiny include: finding things in our lives that make us smile and laugh, make some time in your life to play, listen to your intuition, celebrate your small victories, and be gentle with yourself.
So often people become frustrated if they do not succeed in an endeavor right away. Life is about growth, learning, and change. How can we grow if we don't make mistakes? If something does not work out for us that is a sign that we need to make a change somewhere. Many of our role models have struggled first before they achieved their desired goals. Also do not let anyone tell you what your limits are. That is for you to decide and no one else.
"Nothing can bring you peace but yourself."
Once again this quotes empowers the individual to choose how we are affected by the external world. It allows us the idea that we make the decision to either live in suffering or peacefulness. That is not to say that we can not feel pain, loss, or sadness. It just means that we can make the decision not to wallow in that misery. It says we are able to find peace within ourselves by believing in our strengths and honoring our achievements. Most of all I think it means celebrating our own uniqueness as individuals.
There is a reason it is stated that "there is no one else quite like you." It's true. Each and every one of us have are own special qualities and traits.
Wouldn't it me nice to start this new year off by appreciating all that is you?
