Same Me

If you are reading this, it’s highly likely that you have heard of the idea of “New Years Resolutions” and have also heard the highly optimistic phrase “New Year, New Me.” I have begun to ponder why there’s such a busyness and bustle about these ideas so much so that gym memberships flourish at the start of every year. I wonder what it would be like to face the New Year with the same you and no grand new resolutions and simply a resolve to be.

I’ve noticed that what we all need most is not usually another goal, self-help book, or dramatic new self-care routine plan. Maybe it would be to our benefit if we chose to simply be. That is not to say there are no redeeming qualities in these things or ideas but in a world so saturated with messaging about who, what, and how we should be in 5 easy steps right at our fingertips 24/7 we are so often driven to overwhelm, burnout, anxiety, and this nagging feeling that we are not enough. These things are largely unhelpful and rarely bring any meaningful change we actually want in our lives.

The real challenge and gift to ourselves lies in simply being who we are. This is hard because we’re used to being always occupied with something. Often with the unconscious plan to avoid seeing ourselves because busyness has taken up all the space. We must find a way to get comfortable with what is happening inside our heads, hearts, and bodies. If we are not taking the time to do these things and be with ourselves, how can we possibly know what we need? How can we set resolutions or declare a “new me” if we do not know what is happening within us? The truth is we cannot.

My proposal is to set these things aside and instead this next year commit to being. I have a hunch that what will emerge is the same you. My hope is that there will be a shift to more awareness, compassion, and grace for yourself. A comfort developed with what is happening inside your head, heart, and body. Maybe even a realization that you probably do not need a “new” you because perhaps in doing so you find you become more intentional about who you choose to be.