Moving Forward to 2018

What is it that you need to leave behind in 2017 in order to move forward to in 2018?

Most of us declare a personal growth challenge or change for ourselves this time of year. They are stated in the present or very near future. They do not begin with “Last June, I will…”

Maybe this past year left you with some disappointments. There are times when life seems to uproot the structure and the knowing of the hopes and beliefs that we are grounded in. Perhaps you have had a few repairable regrets, but no matter what it was, allow yourself to take a step beyond it. Actually write it down on paper and virtually step beyond it! Forgive it if needed, and accept it as the past. Forgetting is actually more difficult, but if you are willing to crowd it out with new positive situations – it won’t seem is big.

Often times, things are just out of our control. If you had a serious illness or injury that you endured, then finding strength to push forward both mentally and physically can be draining. Perhaps you have lost a loved one. It will surely take time to embrace the loss while waiting for the memories of their love to fill that place in your heart.

The list of life issues is different for each of us – shattered dreams, painful circumstances, broken relationships, job loss, a goal you just could not make happen… But through it all, finding peace with the past is the healthiest (not easiest) way to move forward. It is up to you to open a new door, and walk through it. You are the author of your life; realistically write a new chapter – move into it – but move! Think about your life, and where you are – that is your starting point. That being said, I would strongly encourage you to reach out for support during difficult seasons.

Let the broken in the unknown change you as you move forward with a renewed and happy spirit into 2018. If you are fortunate enough to still be dancing with joyful experiences from 2017 – good for you, and by all means, keep the music going into 2018! Beware not to compare it to 2017, or look for the ‘same old thing’ for joy - keep expanding!

Blessings to each new breath, and may we all continue to be renewed in love, laughter, hope, each other, and cherished memories as we move forward.

...always be the love that you are