2013 has finally arrived! With it comes an abundance of new intentions, dreams, and possibilities. However, just because the New Year has begun, doesn’t mean you’ve escaped all the baggage of the year passed. It’s important to look at your life and appreciate what you’ve experienced. It’s equally important, though, to let go of the negativity that has made its mark on you. You are greater, kinder, and wiser than those thoughts that run through your mind and bog you down. Leave these three thoughts behind, and get ready for success in the New Year!
1. “I’M NOT _______ ENOUGH.”
Fill in the blank with whichever adjective you knock yourself with the most. You think you’re not pretty/buff/skinny/sexy/smart/wealthy/talented/good/etc. enough.
First of all, remove the term “enough” from your thinking. “Enough” implies a plane of comparison to another person that just does not need to be there. It decides a level that you are supposed to strive for, and yet, who is it that decides that level? You do not, and should not, compare yourself to others because your strengths and weaknesses compared to theirs do not make you a better (or worse) person. Your worth is not measured by what you’re good at or how you look or how much money you have, so get that out of your head.
You are good.
You are beautiful.
You are smart.
Don’t let anyone tell you or make you feel otherwise.
2. “I WILL NEVER SUCCEED.”
Why are you putting a timeline on your “success?” Who are you to say that you will never do it? You are a magnificent being capable of many impressive things. Every morning that you get up and choose to do something that makes you happy is a success. Every moment that you love with your thoughts, words, or actions is a success. Trying in the first place is succeeding! The more you try, the more chances you have at success.
So I implore of you: never say never.
3. “I CAN’T DO IT.”
Even if you believe you can’t, tell yourself you can, because positive thoughts and words have a way of subconsciously affecting our psyche to the point where we begin to believe it. You have the intelligence and ability to achieve what it is you want to achieve. Look at the goal that you are struggling with and work backwards. What steps need to be taken to get to the end line?
Maybe you are a musician and you struggle with stage fright. Stage fright is a result of the fear of judgement and disapproval from others, heightened tension in the body, and lack of practice. Knowing that, you can put different actions into practice to combat those challenges. Rehearse your piece daily, until it becomes second nature. Practice meditation breathing so you can focus and alleviate your body’s anxiety. Look kindly upon others, and in turn you will understand looking kindly upon yourself.
Maybe, for example, you feel like you just can’t lose weight. Well, what is being overweight a result of? It could be a result of poor eating habits, a lack of physical activity and sleep, and the inability to deal with stress properly. So what do you do? Address each cause separately and make small changes to work towards your goal daily. Stop eating processed foods, and increase fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Stop watching TV until midnight, and instead go to bed by 10pm. Stop parking by the front door when you shop, and in turn get some extra movement and activity in your day by parking further away.
Every problem, every struggle has a solution. You can figure out those solutions and you can do it!
LET THEM GO
These three thoughts are toxic, and they tend to cycle around one other, creating a ton of negativity. In the new year, when you are faced with a visit from these thoughts, take a deep breath and let them go. You have the tools to fight, so use them. Create a positive and successful 2013 and know that you can do it!