Before we know it 2022 will be in the rearview and we will be ushering in 2023. The last few years have been unprecedented in many ways and starting with a clean slate is something many people are looking forward to. Along with the new year come the resolutions — motivation is usually high, and we start off with good intentions. For many of us somewhere along the way, resolutions are left in the rearview as well, just like the past year.
What would happen if we reframed resolutions into the mindset of making 2023 “The Year Of …”? The concept is simple. Take time to think about what it is you want to change or bring about in 2023 and instead of thinking of it in terms of a New Year’s resolution, it becomes something bigger. An entire year dedicated to one concept. I’ve seen people do a year of health, a year of reading, a year of less screen time.
You may be asking “What’s the difference?” By choosing one thing to focus on and giving it front and center awareness and intention for one year, you may find there is more time to cultivate and tend to your choice. Don’t want to start all gangbusters after the holidays? You can immerse yourself slowly, taking your time. Something in your plan isn’t working? That’s okay, you can try new ways of doing things and see what works. In many ways, this gift of slow and steady takes the pressure off having to “do” resolutions right. This can allow us to approach our goal and focal point with curiosity and truly see what works. This flexibility is of particular importance considering the changes in military life. A year of intention toward something will look so different from month to month, season to season.
I think one of the biggest benefits of this approach can be the ability to see how we can adapt and how ebbing and flowing can help us to build consistency. A drawback is that a year may seem like a long time to commit to something. Breaking it down into small steps and pieces that work with what life is handing us from moment to moment can be helpful.
Get curious! Sit with your thoughts for a while and see if this appeals to you and what you would like to dedicate a year to — the plan is simply to adjust as needed and see where the journey takes you.
