The Magic of New Year's Eve

I love New Year's Eve. Always have and always will.
There's something incredibly special about a year coming to a close.
While some may see it as another year gone by, I see a fresh start with hope in what's ahead.

But in order for it to be a fresh start, an element of reflection is required.
So for an hour or two each New Year's Eve, I wipe the slate clean, grab a warm beverage, 
pull out my day calendar and start flipping through the pages of this past year, recalling the highs and the lows. I think about what I hope will change, and what I can do to make that happen. I consider the goals I set for 2016 and whether those goals were met. I spend time contemplating the quality of relationships in my life and decide whether they continue to thrive, or have grown stale.

Much has been written on the benefits of self-reflection. Among my favourites is increased personal awareness, an opportunity to take stock of what no longer serves us, becoming better in tune to feelings rather than simply burying them and lastly, an opportunity for positive change. 
Self reflection is key to self care.

By no means is it meant to be an exercise in discipline, or in admonishing ourselves for not meeting expectations. Don't wallow in the mire. It is simply an opportunity to take out our moral compasses, and get back on track.

So now it's time to look ahead.
I don't make a list of new year's resolutions, but I do set intentions. Put that way, it feels less restrictive. Intentions help crystallize hopes not yet realized. They play a significant role in settling you squarely on the path of where you want to be this time next year.

Wishing you all a Happy New Year with the hopes that self care will be high on your list!