Many of us are contemplating what we’d like to bring into our lives as we enter 2012 as well as what we’d like to let go. I for one am working on letting go of the fears that hold me back and the disappointments, frustrations and things I can’t change. I’m focused on what I can change, choices that will get me from where I am to where I want to be and a focus on taking action rather than over thinking. And, first and foremost, I’m grateful for my family and friends. These are just some thoughts that come to mind as the dawn of 2012 approaches.
And, I also believe that 2012 will be another year of reinventing and redefining who we are. Our ‘to do’ lists will be different, however I believe we have a common goal of being the best we can be. Have you started your creation list for 2012? Each year I find there’s a bit of a ‘rollover’ from the previous year and then a few new goals. I’m finding a greater sense of urgency to accomplish these goals the older I get and it sometimes feels like a 2×4 is hitting me to move toward the direction of these dreams vs getting stuck in just thinking about them. It’s so empowering to reach even the smallest of goals and so with that said, here are a few plans I’m getting ready to work on for this new chapter, new year and what I hope will be an amazing journey moving forward.
1 Planning: This is an annual tradition – the purchase of a new day planner. A place where I can enter as much as possible for the new year. Birthdays, anniversaries, special dates, appointments and goal setting. If it’s written down, I find the odds are in my favor. I still have a book called, “Write it Down and Make it Happen,” and it works.
2. Vision Board: A must have moving forward. If you have one, you can easily refresh yours with new photos and new words, phrases and/or symbols. If you don’t have one, consider creating one that you can view every day. It works and I’m excited to see how the new one will unfold.
3. H2O: Yes, every year I make an effort to drink more water and I have to say that 2011 worked out okay, however I must refocus on this one. If this isn’t on your list, think about it. Are you getting enough water to stay hydrated and healthy? I picked up a water carafe to help me out – always keeping water on my desk ensures I’ll stay with this. For more on the benefits of water, perhaps some things that you haven’t thought about, check out this article.
4. Spa Cooking at Home: Let’s face out, going out to dinner is fun, great for socializing (outside the four walls) and it’s relaxing, however this year I intend on cooking at home more. Since part of my business is working with destination spas, I know how simple, healthy and enjoyable ‘spa cooking’ can be and it’s really about cooking healthy – fresh veggies, organic products where possible and portion control. With that said, I’m going through my Spa Cook Books and staying in more…and will hopefully shed a few pounds. Check back here from time to time for some healthy spa meals, photos of my efforts and notes on how they turn out. And with the help of my new KitchenAid blender, healthy spa-like smoothies are on the menu!
Here is one Spa cookbook to consider from Canyon Ranch, a destination spa:
Canyon Ranch: Nourish: Indulgently Healthy Cuisine
And, if you’re a fan of Miraval Arizona, their much awaited Mindful Eating Cookbook will be available in May 2012.
5. Journal: This is always on my list. I have a Gratitude Journal and another journal for ideas, and day to day entries. I keep both the Gratitude journal and the Idea Journal by my bed. Begin yours by entering what you’re thankful for each day – it could be one, two, five or more things. A sunny day, connecting with an old friend, drinking your water, anything and everything you’re grateful for. A Gratitude Journal is about awareness – reflecting on what we’re thankful for keeps us in a positive mindset and that is what will help us move forward. Your journal can be a notebook, however if you’d like something special, consider this one Gratitude: A Daily Journal
If you’re looking for a journal that will help guide you to rediscovering yourself, this may be another to consider Soul Catcher: A Journal to Help You Become Who You Really Are
These are just a few of my personal thoughts, plans, ideas for 2012. What is on your list? Perhaps one of these will inspire you to Plan to Cook More at Home, Begin your Gratitude Journal, Create a Vision Board and Drink your Water. And, a carry over for me from 2011 is to write my book…looking forward to taking the first step to chapter one. (And, yes, exercise and moving more are always on the list!)
What step will you take today to begin this new journey in your life?
May 2012 be a year of good health, joyful living, new adventures and much prosperity! Believe in yourself, continue to have faith and trust that you are exactly where you’re meant to be.
Happy New Year from Mindful Adventures.
Photo Credit: © Donna Adinolfi. Copyright 2010.
