Winter Garden Magazine January 2019 | Page 8

HEALTHY LIVING DIVING INTO THE NEW YEAR Marion E. Wildey J anuary marks that part of the year in which we start to think about dipping our one big toe in to the water of the coming year. With any sort of new territory, we think about what may come out of this year, and what we could put forth as a goal to accomplish in the coming months ahead. So, to timidly think about dipping our toe into 2019, that metaphorically will become an exciting kayak paddle, we must consider a few things and take into account where we are at this very moment in life. It is from here we must springboard into the coming waters ahead. Part of being in the moment and taking stock of the facts about your current historical timeline is also noting the things you have grown to “know” you like, and things you definitely do not want to ever give another thought to because you’re no longer interested in it, and it holds no value to you. Consider making the beginning of the year the time to send out the old, truly rid your environment of things that are no longer on your radar, and clear the way to attract new, so that the chapter ahead is supportive of the continued path you choose to follow for the year ahead. What’s the best method to accomplish the desires you have for yourself? Deciding to be your own advocate in succeeding in life means you have to be active in the 8  | WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2019 participation of moving forward toward your goals. You can’t sit back and allow whatever to occur just because you have identified what you want. You have to put effort into the accomplishment. But do you? So, looking ahead is necessary to identify your strengths and that which you gravitate towards. Once you’ve allowed your predilections to surface, dip the paddle long and deep, to pull towards your goal. As you propel your kayak of life forward in ever- changing waters, you learn to read the changes and how to navigate across the waves to reach the summit of potential. You’re ready for a change this year, and you’re tired of spinning your wheels in so many directions, but how to quiet yourself enough to let rise what interests you coupled with what you have a penchant for? When you are running from one job or obligation to another in constant succession, you will note there isn’t a lot of time for reflection, yet that is precisely the prescribed means to provide peace from all there is to consider. Plus, reflection on past weeks of on-the-go behavior would currently reveal the overwhelming call for rest. It wouldn’t be until after rest restored rational brain thoughts that consideration can be given to assessing the