New Year’s Intentions

New Year blessings to you! Whatever has been before, is gone. Before us lies a brand new, sparkling, magical new year. So how will we use it? What will we do with it?

There’s a Norwegian song that says tomorrow is like a clean sheet of paper and brand new crayons, isn’t that a wonderful image? In order to take advantage of that clean sheet of paper, I spent some time reviewing 2013 looking at what worked well and what could be improved upon. Looking through my diary, I realised that I had felt squeezed in a way I had not been quite prepared for. So now’s the perfect time to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

I’m starting as I mean to go on. I’ve slimmed down my diary, creating more room for me. In order to do this I have shortened my working week by half a day and I’m planning to reorganise more as the term starts. This doesn’t mean there is less to be done, but I’ll work smarter, delegate more and set more boundaries. Which means that the stuff I dowill be done better and with more enjoyment.

As I grow older I need more time to sleep, think and be alone in order to be my best. Then, when I am with people, or at Uni or at work, I am more present and find everything more fulfilling and rewarding. My plan is that this approach will design more mindfulness into my days. This will give me more energy to enjoy what I am doing whether it be meditating quietly, preparing a presentation for work or partying with the girls.

My other big priority is people. It is so easy to forget that what really counts is people. So I’m creating space to be with my family, my friends and not least my amazing partner. By designing in good, sociable habits I’m hoping to make it easier to not take anyone for granted.

Spending slow, focused time with people is the only way to make sure I really see them and what’s going on with them. Time passes by so quickly if we don’t make the most of it. I want my friends, family and partner to know that I care, that I have time for them and love being with them. Words won’t convey the fullness of this meaning, only actions will. So I’m keeping this in mind as I reorganise my diary in order to make it happen.

I welcome the new year as I open the door and step into the unknown. Now, with a cup of deliciously hot tea, I savour the first sunset of the 2014. When my cup is empty I will prepare for tomorrow. One thing at a time, calmly, slowly. I start as I mean to go on.

What are your intentions for the year ahead? I’d love to hear from you. Lots of love!

Finding the community of Cycle Harmony has made a huge difference to me. I am delighted to be writing to you from the Red Tent  and hope to share thoughts and experiences you recognise, or find useful to ponder upon. I look forward to working with you all in exploring what it is to be women, and hope to hear from you. ~ Vild

Image credit: Sonny Abesamis