Reset Before the New Year (2024)

Reset:

Resetting is an action that involves fixing something in a new or different way. When applied to prepping for the new year consider reflection, release, reward, and resolution as being actionable items. While you can essentially reset at anytime throughout the year, the last two weeks tend to offer more downtime making it the most opportune.

Reflection:

The year 2023 was somewhat off putting in terms of stressors. Inflation was the hot topic of the year and, like everyone, I felt its impact. My budget was so tight down to the penny with increases in cost of living. When you’re stressed financially, you’re stressed at work because the labor and wages aren’t balanced. However, the bright side is I made it through; mind, body, roof, car, and food intact.  Which wasn’t the case in years past with resembling struggles. With stress levels being unusually high it was difficult to focus on the goals set at the beginning of that year. Mainly, getting back into a routine. Actually, none of my goals were accomplished so, I’ll have to revisit them in the new year.

Release (what to let go of or negativity to leave behind):

Letting go is an extremely challenging process. But once managed, the action holds the greatest significance. Ideally, I would like to claim mastery over letting go of the things I can’t control. Being the over-thinker that I am, it’s not likely I’ll get there. Still, the action will be continuously listed as a reminder of what to aim towards. A step forward is to work in parts. Focus on items you can control that aren’t benefiting you. At work l identified a task that was causing heighten anxiety. In attempt to release before the start of the new year, I gave up that task and felt instantly relieved. Along that same line, I am releasing the pressure I place on myself in various aspects of life that only result in negative thoughts of inadequacy.

Reward (Favorite finds):

Don’t ever shy away from rewarding yourself. Finding rewarding moments or purchases acknowledges that your effort is seen and valued. The action imparts mental positivity. Each year I look back on my most beloved purchases that were both rewarding and beneficial. This time around these purchases are:

1. MacBook- this replaced a very slow $180 laptop; no complaints with the money spent on the MacBook. https://www.bestbuy.com/site/macbook-air-13-3-laptop-apple-m1-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-space-gray/5721600.p?skuId=5721600

2. Kindle ereader tablet- already spoke about this purchase in a previous blog, this little light weight tablet has gotten me excited about reading again. https://www.target.com/p/amazon-kindle-6-34-e-reader-black-2022-release/-/A-86976936

3. La Roche-Posay anti-aging face serum with Pure Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5- I first got this at a dermatology appointment as a free sample. Once I tried it the benefits for my face were noticeable after for use. Up until recently, I’ve never spent a ton on face products. This one costs about $40, so I consider a reward. https://www.target.com/p/la-roche-posay-hyaluronic-acid-serum-hyalu-b5-face-serum-1-01-fl-oz/-/A-76545829

Resolution(Goals):

People tend to stray away from setting New Year resolutions, but rather you title them goals, intentions, or themes it all boils down to meaning the same thing. My goals for the next year are:

1. Get into the habit of working out first thing in the morning

2. Do more experimental cooking

3. Continue the process made towards reading more books

4. Prioritize writing while the inspiration is high

These are more long term goals and will carry over a span of years, but I intend to apply more focus on them specifically over the next 12 months.

I have found a renewed sense of dedication to the journey of living.

Feeling hopeful,

©2024

Alisia Latoi