New Year, New Me! Same Me, Though

Reflections and Resolutions in January

I have mixed feelings about the concept of "linear time." I believe we experience time in a number of different ways that contradict linearity, but I believe in cycles and rituals, and the new calendar year can be a very useful one. 

January's arrival following the holiday season naturally invites us to reflect on what we experienced in the past year. Many of us notice opportunities to make changes that will improve our quality of life: maybe in our health and wellness, maybe in our relationships or careers, maybe we're not yet sure exactly where we want to make a change but we're certain that we need one. 

This window of reflection and the possibilities that emerge from it do not last long before the obligations, stressors, and to-do lists of the new year claim our focus. The "new year, new me!" declaration is tempting in its simplicity, but it isn't true. You're still you in the new year; the difference might be that you've seen new habits, goals, or ways of being that you want to try. It takes focused energy to make a lasting change in your life. (A coach can help a lot, too.)

“New year, new me! Same me, though.” - LaMelo Ball

Finding Joy in the Non-Linear Journey

In the clip above, I love the joy with which LaMelo adds, "Same me, though." Embracing the truth that we're bringing our same ~being~ into the new year is a compassionate perspective. This "same" you is the one that saw the changes you want to make in your life, and seeing them is what makes them achievable. Of course, the next necessary ingredient is action. As you take action to realize these changes, your brain will respond well to compassion. Here we return to our timeless recipe for success: take small steps and celebrate as you go.

This "same" you is the only you you'll ever have. It is also true that change is constant and unavoidable. You've given yourself a serious gift by being intentional about how you want to change. Show yourself some compassion and find joy in the (non-linear) journey—you'll get much further that way. 

If you haven't yet given yourself a chance to envision the changes you'd love to experience in 2024, it is not too late! Consider this an invitation. Imagine it's the end of the year, you're catching up with a friend and they say to you, "Wow, it sounds like you're thriving!" What have you just told them? Paint this picture for yourself. Write it down somewhere.

Then, take a step back. Given where you are now, you may see an experiment to run or a goal to aim for that will bring you closer to that vision.

New year, same you xD, new perspective.