The new year is right around the corner. When I look back at the past and see where I have been, I’m amazed at how much I’ve learned, where I’ve been and how I’ve grown. I’ve also seen a lot of “end of the decade” articles on the web these days. We’re getting ready to move into the next decade (yes, I know that some people believe the next decade doesn’t start until 2021), and there is a lot to look forward to.

I’m taking the time the rest of this week to reflect on what I want in the next year (and beyond).

Are you taking time to reflect and get in touch with your feelings, what you really want, and how to embrace that moving forward?

During the winter holidays, I am often trying to cram in family and friend time, writing, reading, and watching movies, but taking time to reflect, meditate and plan out what I’d like in the upcoming year, not so much.

But this year is different because I am choosing to plan differently.

I have carved out time to reflect on my year-end author business blog post (for the last several years, I write about how much I’ve learned about the publishing business), but I’m also making time to focus on self-care activities:

• Journal writing

• Meditation

• Exercise

• Just having fun

When the new year starts, I want to make certain that I’m making time for activities and play that will be good for me. I am also working to ensure that I’m brought into any familial or work drama.

If you’re dealing with some difficult life problems, maybe in 2020 you can create new pathways for yourself?

• See a counselor/therapist.

• Read some self-help books.

• Join an online (and safe) community.

• Treat yourself (eat, sleep and rest)

I know that sometimes life gets in the way and we don’t have the luxury to spend time or money on ourselves. But I would counter that with a small amount of time each day can make a big difference in your self-esteem and mental well-being.

Here are some ideas to help you:

• Practice yoga. Yoga with Adriene is a free YouTube channel. She has more than 5 million subscribers and I swear by her episode on the lower back. Treat yourself in 2020 and try some of the beginning episodes.

• Watch Deepak Chopra’s “The Healing Self” video on YouTube.

• Go back and read all of my previous Let Go and Be Free blog posts.

All three of my suggestions are free, and you can watch/read at your leisure.

Finding joy and peace in your life might take time, but you can do it. Changing one’s habits and surrounding yourself with positive influences and healthy living does take time, but I know you can do it.

How?

One day at a time.

Like what you’ve read? Be sure to check out my other posts in my Let Go and Be Free blog.