As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on our journeys, both the highs and the lows. Last night, I took a seat at my desk, my journal open before me. I revisited the list of goals I created for myself around this time last year, and I had to face a sobering reality.
How many of those goals had I achieved?
None.
Yes, I admit it; my first reaction was to feel like I had failed. But oddly enough, as I shut my journal and stood up, I found myself smiling.
Why, you ask?
Although I didn’t achieve any specific objectives I had set, I gained invaluable insights along the way. I experienced personal growth.
If you’re in a similar situation, try to remember that the best preparation for future success is simply to prepare. Start by making a concrete plan.
With three weeks left in 2017, there’s still time to make things happen. Avoid the “I’ll start in the new year” mindset—embrace change now.
DECLUTTER
Now is an excellent opportunity to eliminate clutter—anything that you no longer need, want, or use.
Consider decluttering your closet, garage, basement, and kitchen cabinets, as well as your makeup collection.
Dispose of expired skincare products, clothes you haven’t worn in a year, etc. By January, you’ll feel refreshed and ready for a new beginning.
CLEAN UP YOUR DIGITAL SPACE
When was the last time you backed up your devices? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Remove old emails, documents, photos, and videos that you no longer need. Transfer the items you wish to keep onto an external drive and clear the rest.
PRINT OUT THOSE PHOTOS
My sister and I enjoy flipping through old photo albums filled with pictures from our childhood. These moments are often accompanied by laughter and a bit of cringing. This nostalgic practice used to be a treasured pastime, especially during rainy Sundays with family storytelling.
I have countless digital pictures waiting to be printed and cherished in albums. The period between Christmas and New Year is a fantastic time to tackle this project. It’s a lovely activity to share with a loved one, and a beautifully compiled album can make a heartfelt gift.
DONATE + GIVE BACK
Many of us are fortunate, even if we sometimes feel otherwise. As we approach this festive season, consider giving to those in need. Acts of kindness can change someone’s day, or even life. Your goodwill is powerful.
Look for opportunities to help in your community—join holiday food drives, donate books or clothing, and support small, local businesses. If you have time, consider volunteering. When ordering coffee, pay for the person behind you. Remember, the spirit of this season is nurtured by our actions.
CREATE NEW GOALS
Refrain from labeling them as resolutions. Instead, consider them goals. Write them down and devise a plan. Many of us struggle with New Year resolutions because we set our expectations too high, wanting to achieve everything in one year.
Opt for smaller, achievable tasks. Aim to wake up an hour early or take a 15-minute walk before work. Change can be daunting, so starting small will help foster new habits.
TIE UP LOOSE ENDS
Whether it’s an overdue bill, an application you need to submit, or unresolved relationships, tackle these lingering issues now. We often delay dealing with the tasks we dread.
Avoiding these problems doesn’t help; they linger in the back of your mind, causing unwelcome stress whenever you try to relax.
So, why wait? My mom always reminds me that there is a solution for every problem, no matter how overwhelming it seems. If you know you can’t resolve everything in time, outline a plan that will help you address these pending issues.
LEARNING FROM FAILURE
This past year has been extraordinarily challenging for me. Last December, just days before Christmas, I suffered the loss of my beloved Grandma, Alinka.
She was my role model and best friend, someone I held dear. This profound loss was something I had never experienced before, and the pain was unlike anything I could have imagined. There were nights I lost my voice from screaming in anguish. I found myself pleading with the universe, desperate to understand the meaning of it all.
The world continued its course, while I felt trapped in a storm of grief.
Eventually, when I mustered the courage to move forward, I found myself in a car accident that halted my progress once again.
Many of the goals I had envisioned felt unattainable in the wake of my injuries. I grappled with feelings of weakness and confusion as I navigated countless medical appointments, insurance issues, and the inability to engage in the activities I once loved.
Amidst it all, I constantly reminded myself that my challenges were minor compared to what my Grandma experienced in her fight against cancer.
I often felt guilt for needing rest and for my perceived inability to bounce back quickly.
One of the critical lessons I’ve learned through this tumultuous journey is that life is unpredictable, and accidents happen, for reasons we may never understand. Here are some insights I’ve gained:
- Forgiveness—both of yourself and others—is crucial.
- The trivial matters that often cause us frustration fade in significance.
- Your circumstances can change in an instant.
- Gratitude opens your eyes to the beauty of your life.
- True friends are the ones who stand by you during your darkest times.
So while I may not have completed any of my predefined goals for 2017, I feel like I’ve grown immensely. I’ve gathered a wealth of experience, and despite feeling like a failure at times, I’ve learned to appreciate personal achievements.
Even though my body still feels uncooperative, and I continue to grieve my Grandma’s loss, I recognize that gratitude is vital. Everyone faces their struggles, be it in relationships, careers, health, or mental well-being. What seems unattainable today could become manageable tomorrow. Reflecting on past accomplishments can reveal your strength.
Remember to acknowledge even your smallest victories. Don’t rush the process; it’s okay if things take longer than expected. Each setback carries a lesson, and every challenge brings you closer to your goals.
