New Year, Same Me ... And that's OK
Ahhhh… This is the permission you did not know you needed to relax, breath, and exhale. We have finally made it to the end of the year!
For some, the last month of the year can mean reflections and accomplishments, and for others it may mean change and new beginnings are ahead. Whatever that season looks like for you, remember you are the captain of your own ship. Where you are currently, is exactly where you need to be.
I used to buy into the idea of “New Year New Me,” however I have let go of that notion with the mindset that I can grow, evolve, and evaluate at any time of the year and at my own pace. I found it wasn’t productive for me to rely on meeting certain goals with the end of the year being my deadline. While deadlines are important, sometimes they can bring unwanted and unhealthy anxiety rooted in failure and disappointment. Thus, I learned that I wanted to always be in a state of reflection and evaluation as it related to my career, relationships, and my overall happiness.
Operating with this approach has given me permission to decide how I want to show up to the world with this newfound information gathered through my year-long journey. My thoughts became clearer. I was able to have more gratitude, have self-compassion, and give others grace.
As we close out the year, I challenge you to evaluate what you need and how you wish to enter the New Year. What social constructs are you going to leave behind? What are you going to give yourself permission to do? What bets are you going to take on yourself? AND, if you decide to do nothing, be okay with just that!
So, cheers to New Beginnings and Ever Evolving…
Jaime Harry
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Wellness Program Liaison
jaime.harry@utsouthwestern.edu
About the Author
Jaime Harry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Duke Certified Integrated Health and Wellness Coach. Jaime's passion is driven in Diversity Equity and Inclusion and Mental Wellness for all people.