While the majority of Grenadians may not make New Year’s resolutions, many of those who are making them are looking to make changes. Among some of the things they may want to let go of are unrealistic expectations, regrets, grudges and resentment, fear of change, youthful insecurities, rigid habits, worrying about the future, pleasing everyone, perfectionism and over commitment.
Remember, letting go of certain things is a personal and ongoing process. The New Year also offers emotional releases for people who are erasing the bad in hopes of a better new year and wiping the slate clean or smashing things or saying good riddance to self-doubt, arguments, financial stress and goodbye to issues ranging from medical treatments to poor physical health.
Some people may want to get rid of specific things like exes also. Over the past year, I’ve reflected deeply on what it means to lead a fulfilling life and achieve personal success. Through these reflections, I’ve identified several keys that can help us grow, improve, and thrive.
Each of us excels in some areas while needing improvement in others, and this list is designed to increase awareness and serve as a roadmap on our journey toward greater success and enjoyment in life.
Remember that success is deeply personal, no one else can define it for you. Progress toward what we truly want is where we find our version of success. Also remember that you are unique, even identical twins do not have the same characteristics.
Be comfortable with who you are. As it is often said, be comfortable in your skin. Celebrate who you are and appreciate your uniqueness. There is no need to compare with anyone else as your life has a unique purpose which only you can fulfill. You should appreciate everything about you.
What is a New Year’s Resolution?
Put simply, a New Year resolution or goal is a promise we make to ourselves as the New Year begins, aiming for positive changes or a more vibrant life. For instance, it could be committing to regular gym visits or picking up a new hobby.
The tradition dates back to Ancient Rome, where people vowed to settle debts with Janus, the god associated with January – hence the month’s name. Over time, this practice gained popularity, evolving into the widely embraced tradition of setting New Year resolutions.
Forgetting the past:
We have to learn to live in the present moment as that is the only moment we have. If you look at the past for mistakes then it is surely not worth it. As they say, if you want to take the island you need to burn the boats.
You have to completely let go of the past to move forward in a positive direction. Looking to past success is also a good use of time. You can always decide from this moment forward to live in a totally different way if you want to.
Parenting:
Parenting is an exciting adventure; you can try to be a good role model for your kids. It is one of the most satisfying roles of our lives and of course we will face those moments where we lose it completely.
This is part and parcel of life. I am yet to meet someone who is the perfect parent. All we can do is to show them possibilities and help them follow their dreams.
Students:
New Year can be a perfect time for students to improve certain aspects of their life. Be it personally, academically or professionally. They can try to get what they are required to enhance themselves as an individual, leave bad old habits and show more passion for their studies. Students may want to get rid of arguing with their mom.
As students, make sure you thank someone every day for going out of their way and try to learn a new vocabulary word every day. If you are already in college, you should start studying earlier. It will save you a lot of stress, sleepless nights and mental breakdowns in the upcoming year!
Also, attend all your classes and find a better balance between studying and free time. Studying is of course important, but so is your free time! That’s why it is a great resolution for 2025 to plan enough time for your social life, hobbies and other fun activities.
Drink less alcohol. Occasionally having a few drinks with friends or schoolmates is of course great fun, but cutting back on alcohol is never a bad idea, especially as a student, plus, you’ll save a lot of money doing so.
While you’re at it, make it a habit to drink more water. Buy a nice water bottle and keep it on your desk. You will see that you will soon reach two litres or more of water per day.
Eat healthier; make time for new hobbies, get more sleep, quit bad habits such as smoking, gambling, biting your nails, and not brushing your teeth at night. Spend less time on social media: On average, students spend about two hours a day on social media.
Quite a waste, because in that time they can do so many other fun or productive things! Whether they prefer to spend that time on your studies or something fun, they should try cutting down their phone usage this year, for instance by setting time limits or deleting apps.
Looking at the future with hope:
The best way to predict the future is to create it. Of course, we cannot predict the future, but we can make some long-term plans which can excite us in the present. If you have a great vision for your life you will feel happier and more energetic.
Painting a wonderful future by pushing broad brush strokes against each area of your life and the different roles you play. The year 2024 is gone. We can’t look back. We can only look ahead to new beginnings. Lamenting the past prevents us from thinking about the possibilities of the future.
So, as you enter the New Year I sincerely hope and pray for a year that is filled with peace, harmony, and goodwill among all people and for an end to violence and war and to the fear that provokes them.
I will continue both to pray and to work for a world of understanding, openness, compassion, and love. I hope that this coming year will bring success, joy, and happiness to you and your family. Have a merry and blessed New Year and may God continue to bless you.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT.
Simeon Collins is a former Director of the Grenada Bureau of Standards and first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA), a CARICOM Institution. He is also a certified OSHA Auditor. He was also the Chairman of the Emergency Housing Committee (EHC) named by the Government of Grenada after Hurricane Ivan destroyed Grenada to rebuild the houses stock in this country