It’s hard to believe that the year is almost over! Did it seem to fly by? At this time of year, even with the joys of the season, too often we start focusing on all of the things we intended to do but just never found the time for. This year, instead of looking back with some regret, try a different focus.
Take a minute to be happy about what you did accomplish before you dwell on what you hoped to accomplish.
Did you play with your kids and help them with homework? Did you have a kind word or smile for people you met as you ran errands? Did you call or visit friends? Did you find time to enjoy your family?
Too often we focus on the negative rather than the positive: I didn’t volunteer at the local shelter or I didn’t start that exercise program.
Maybe you didn’t achieve some goals. But you probably accomplished many other things. Sure, it’s important to have goals; it’s also important to think about why you have those goals. The goals you set should be realistic for you. Don’t set goals based on what someone else does. You don’t have to volunteer at a shelter to make a difference. There are lots of other things you can do. For example, once a week you could send a card to someone in a nursing home or someone who is home bound. You will be amazed at the joy you can give with a simple act.
At the end of the year, some people start to look back at what they didn’t do in the past few months. Instead, try appreciating what you did do. And if you want to do more next year, then set goals that are unique to you!