As we leave 2012 behind, and begin 2013, it helps to set our intentions for the upcoming year, while taking the time to reflect on where we have been. The following 4 steps provide us with a guide to developing a mental blueprint for achieving these intentions and thriving in 2013.
Take the time to reflect and write your answers to the following questions on a piece of paper, in a journal, or a notebook, where it won’t get lost. You can do this exercise alone or with a partner. Try not to over- think the questions. Just allow your mind to come up with the answers within a couple of minutes. If, for some reason, your mind goes blank, allow the questions to settle in your psyche over the next couple of days and see if you don’t come up with the answers easily and effortlessly, perhaps when you least expect it.
- In looking back on your achievements this past year, what would you consider the most important or the ones you feel most proud of?
- What did those achievements teach you about yourself and/or your world that was significant to you?
- How did those achievements help others or contribute to the world you live in, even in the smallest way?
- Now imagine that it is one year from now (January 2014) and you are asking yourself these same questions. Reflecting back on your life this past year, note your greatest accomplishments and ask what you learned about yourself that was important. Reflect on how these accomplishments impacted others or the world around you. Imagine and recreate any feelings that you experienced while achieving those goals or accomplishments and note any pictures that come into your mind along with any emotions and sensations. Notice exactly what steps you took to achieve these goals.
Make sure to note those steps and write them down to be used as a blueprint for 2013.
If you are working with a partner, read them out loud to each other. In reflecting on your answers, keep them somewhere that you can easily read to remind you and keep you on track over the next 12 months. Perhaps some creative alterations or ideas will guide you while in this process as you hold on to the outcome in your mind. Allow your psyche to guide you through this next year, as well, having given it the picture of what it is to look like. Now find the balance between remembering the outcome, the steps that you took along the way, the good emotions that the picture brings up for you, and the ability to keep relaxed focus, while allowing it to unfold and manifest in your life for your and the world’s highest good.
Wishing you all a wonderful 2013!
Leslie is an ADHD Coach and holistic therapist working in South Florida. If you want more help with ADHD, sign up for my free newsletter on my website and get your free tips to Overcoming Procrastination and Achieving Your Goals at: www.addadults.net.