Wrapping it up!
It’s December! Time to reflect on the year gone by, and to predict and plan for 2025. I’ll share some of my reflections and lessons learned. Hopefully you’ll relate:
- Be kind - smile at everyone you meet, pass by or talk to on the phone – it costs nothing, takes fewer muscles than frowning, feels good, and it immediately makes the recipient happier
- Balance life and work obligations – this is increasingly important as demands of the workplace (and the world) rise. I’ll write more about this in the future
- Under-promise and over-deliver – at home and at work. Setting expectations that are too high can be anti-climactic and deflating
- Don’t judge or complain – what you see is not always what is real. People are unique individuals, accept them as they are and try not to criticize if they look or think differently than you
- Keep your loved ones close – show them that you care by doing random acts of kindness to bring them happiness
- Practice vicarious joy – being happy for the happiness of others. It makes you feel great and is great for your mental health
- Forgive and ask for forgiveness – neither is easy, but find it in yourself to pardon those who have wronged you, or say you’re sorry to those you’ve wronged. Get past the issue you’re holding on to, and be determined not to let it sour you
- Laugh often – watch shows that make you laugh out loud, there’s nothing like a belly laugh that brings tears
- Call home, even if your initials are not “ET” – if you have parents, grandparents, adult children, close friends, give them a spontaneous call often. You’ll be surprised at how happy they’ll be
- Make the best of it – whether it is a job you don’t much like, or a trying situation you’re in. “Fake it till you make it” is not a bad strategy
- Set goals for 2025 – seriously consider you future, your career path, your family, and plan how to become a better version of yourself. Then set off and do what it takes!
- Lastly – NO REGRETS! This is a wonderful time to take stock, take action and make peace with yourself and others. Enjoy life and live it to the fullest, because we’re just passing through
After my reflections, I give myself “awards” for anything I consider to be an achievement. The awards are small things - a trip to the bookstore, a tray of sushi, a new movie, a sleep-in on a Saturday morning. They feel good!
I predict that, if I practice these lessons, I’ll be a better person. I certainly plan to be one!
Thank you sincerely for reading my articles! I hope you continue to relate, enjoy and learn something each time you read. I offer my best wishes for a safe and enjoyable holiday season, and a new year that promises joy, good health and success.
Email me: bernadette@gogettercoaching.com .