I hear a certain phrase a lot this time of year: "New Year, New You!". It never sits right within me. First of all, what's so wrong with the "old" me? Second, if our intention is new-ness, we risk disregarding those characteristics and habits that are worth perpetuating. Third, it fosters a "move on" or "get over it" attitude. To me, it feels like an invitation to reject what is existing in favor of what is new, which limits our ability to learn from our past experience.
The practice of denying or rejecting pieces of ourselves inhibits our ability to grow. Through radical acceptance and unconditional love of ourselves, we can begin to step forward in full awareness of who we are.
Instead of an "out with the old, in with the new" mentality, I invite us all into the understanding that the most unloveable aspects of ourselves are the ones that need the most love. If you want to see changes in your life in 2019, the process can be a simple one:Notice your experience instead of judging it, increasing your self awareness.Once you are aware of an aspect of yourself and your experience, accept it fully.In full awareness and acceptance, make a different choice from the one you have made before.Repeat, until big change has happened in small steps over time.Perhaps instead of "New Year, New You!" the thought is, "New Year, New Opportunities to Love and Accept Myself." I'll admit that it isn't as catchy, but hopefully it is more helpful.