2019. What a year. And we’ve not even seen out our first month yet. What I love is that so many people are hell bent on 2019 being a brilliant year. And I for one cannot wait to see how it pans out.

When it comes to times of uncertainty, it’s only natural to turn to things that you can control. It’s far more satisfying than wasting time lamenting things you have absolutely no influence over. So, like many, I’ve decided to look inwards for a while.

My focus for 2019

I’ve never been particularly jazzed about New Year’s resolutions. I get them. I do. I just don’t think they’re for me. And why try and force some arbitrary timing, and an arbitrary deadline, for the sake of tradition (although, generally I do love traditions).

So things I’ve done so far this year to help me appreciate myself more, and become my own best friend are:

1. Get. to. the. gym. Working out feels good, gives me energy, and being fit generally makes the rest of life a bit easier. Win!
2. Meditation. I started using meditation last year to help combat stressful situations. I’ve taken that to an almost daily practice. And I’m in the process of taking it one step further.
3. Studying Buddhism. This is something I started when I was about 18. Can you spot me in the cover image? My meditation lead me to seminar on Buddhism, and I’m enjoying seeing where it takes me. There are no coincidences, right?
4. Writing. Get the thoughts out of that head. Let them flow onto the paper. Explore them. Nurture them. Love them grow them.
5. Therapy. Shit happens. I know that. Now is the time to let someone help me sort that out. I need to get out of my own way. Calm that ego down. And realise that getting help is a strength, not a weakness.
6. Learning to drive. Something else I started when I was 18. It’s always been a stumbling block for me. This time I’m going to get it done. Not questions asked. No two ways about it. I can do it!

Self love

Meditation has become a surprisingly big part of my life. I didn’t think I’d adopt it so quickly (there really is something in the 30 days to build a habit thing). I’m not saying it’s easy. It’s not. And it’s no quick fix. But it’s supporting all my other practices. It helps my relationship. All my relationships.

It’s helping me identify my own flaws, so that I can improve them. It’s helping me be grateful for every asset, every positive moment I receive in life. It’s helping me gain clarity and perspective.

It’s helping build my compassion. My wisdom. Bravery and courage.

What does your year look like?

Have you made any resolutions? How are they going?

I’m painfully aware of my impending Mission: Playtime deadline (less than four months!) and I’m totally chill. Have I done them all? Absolutely not. Will I get them all done? No chance? Have I loved this process. Yes. Without a doubt.