New Year, Same Habits?

Many people use the new year to restart and refocus. The beginning of a new year is time to set intentions surrounding habits that are effective. This requires you to increase your awareness of habits that are ineffective. You do know that many people still engage in habits that are ineffective, right? This is equivalent to continuing a behavior simply because it is what you learned in childhood. Catch my drift?!

I was sitting at my desk after writing my gratitude for the day and briefly looked at my devotional, which prompted thoughts about the blog. I grabbed my phone and began typing. The ironic thing is I am in a physical season of decluttering. My mom taught me about decluttering at an early age, which came in the form of giving back. I often donated clothing to cousins and the local Interfaith in my city. It was a way of doing something for others as well as a way for me to make space for new things. As an adult, I have found such great value in decluttering in various capacities. Oh, you thought this was only about clothes? Nah. "Clutter can be physical stuff we're attached to that makes us feel or look important. It can be achievements and accolades. It can be memories of the good ol'days. It can even be any place, prize, protocol, or people we cling to and find refuge or significance in."

As we enter this new year, I challenge you to reflect on the areas of your life that could benefit from a decluttering session. Letting go of things that you believe you need can be difficult; I’ve listed a few reflection questions below. Feel free to add your own.

-What is the habit, thing, person, or place I’m considering releasing?

-What secondary gain is provided by holding onto this habit/clutter?

-Does it serve the purpose it was initially developed for in this new season? Is it more harmful or helpful?

-What can it be replaced with for long-term benefits?

Every season requires a different you, different tools, and different habits to be successful. I have not given away anything that was not replaced with something better. Whatever it is that you are holding onto, assess whether it aligns with your vision for the year.

Remember: The goal is to be of value and not just have valuables.

Feel free to share with a friend who may benefit!

Take time, talk soon!