How to Let Go of a Tough Year with Inspiration, Positivity and Empowerment
If you are here, it’s likely that you are at the end, or the very start of a year.
It is also likely that you’ve had it tough and you’re looking to create a new you, or a new reality around you.
If so, this article is for you to feel better amongst the challenges and uncertainties the last year brought to you, and to feel more inspired, positive and empowered about stepping into this new year.
Consider every new year, just like every day, as an opportunity for transformation… and no, there is no need for toxic positivity or harsh resolutions.
1. Tune in and Trust Your Intuition
First, the good news!
🙌 You do not have to write an endless to-do list!
🙌 You do not have to be hard on yourself!
🙌 You do not have to be more like everybody else, to fit in!
🙌 You do not have to kill yourself at the gym, and eat chia seeds and goji berries for weeks!
If you want to be at your best, you need to be on your own side. To start trusting your intuition, and to believe that you deserve joy.
Deep down, my friend, you know what you want, and you know how to get there. Get away from the noise and tune in; you'll be amazed what comes up.
2. Set the Right Goals
Committing to self-awareness (knowing yourself deeply) is already huge, but if you're in the mood to set goals, make sure you set the right ones!
I'm not here to teach you SMART goals or an over-complicated method.
I want you to believe that you can achieve milestones, and that things can improve even if you only change small things.
You do not need to take giant steps, or to be hard on yourself, to get to your destination.
Take some time to reflect, and grab a pen and paper:
✨ Think about what you truly want in life beyond material possessions. Is it joy, love, calm, adventures, freedom, creativity, challenges, or perhaps authentic friendships?
✨ Envision the person you want to become in terms of habits, relationships, and lifestyle. What do they eat? How do they relax? How do they cope with a tough day? What kind of friends do they hang out with? How do they shop and where? What do they read?
✨ Think about how this new reality will feel. What will you tell yourself when it comes about?
📝 WRITE IT ALL DOWN
Now commit to one small change. Only one.
Start small, grow your confidence, and repeat the process. The journey is about building trust in yourself and celebrating every milestone.
3. Don’t “bin” last year just yet!
As you step into a new year, start by acknowledging the challenges of the past year. Whether it's illnesses, personal or professional struggles, or unexpected financial issues, take a moment to reflect before moving forward.
It is very tempting to dismiss the challenges of the past year, but empowerment lies in acknowledging them as stepping stones, not roadblocks.
"It is very tempting to dismiss the challenges of the past year, but empowerment lies in acknowledging them as stepping stones, not roadblocks."
Now, empower yourself for this new year!
✨ Acknowledge the challenges as a separate entity - don't let them define you.
✨ What have you learnt from those obstacles? How are you a stronger person?
✨ Think about events, people and activities you are thankful for.
✨ Plan consciously for the changes you want to see in 2024.
Rather than dismissing the past year, use it to shape the new one.
Create new opportunities, make conscious choices, and design your life with intention.
What are you leaving behind, and what are you bringing with you to conquer your goals?
A new year, just like every new day, is a canvas waiting for your masterpiece. Let self-discovery and empowerment guide you as you navigate the new chapters in your life.
Remember that an accredited Life Coach is professionally trained to help you go through changes in the easiest, most effective way.
I'm here to help! And I'll leave you with this empowering quote I created for you:
"Challenges are stepping stones to a stronger, wiser you."
* Books I recommend relating to this topic:
"The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle
This book explores the concept of living in the present moment and finding power and joy in the now.
"Atomic Habits" by James Clear
James Clear's book delves into the science of habit formation and offers practical insights on making small changes for big results.
"Daring Greatly" by Brené Brown
Brené Brown explores the power of vulnerability and the importance of embracing imperfections to live a wholehearted life.
"Mindset" by Carol S. Dweck
Carol Dweck's work explores the concept of mindset and how having a growth mindset can lead to success and resilience.
"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl
Viktor Frankl's profound exploration of finding meaning in life even in the face of immense challenges can inspire those going through difficult times.
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About the Author
Hi! I'm Sophie and I am so glad you're here! I help women and men make small, incremental changes that create a positive ripple effect on their entire life.
You have the power to turn your life around, starting today.
I am here to help you succeed.
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I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I coach, collaborate and grow, the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji and Yirrganydji Peoples. I acknowledge and pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the world’s oldest living culture and embrace their continued connection to land, waters and community. I pay my deepest respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past and present.
I also recognise, value and celebrate diversity and act in the spirit of inclusion.