Happy New Year! Each year, I make a long list of things I want to accomplish. For instance, you could ask me how many times I went to the gym or exercised last year. The truth is, I often set high expectations for myself and forget to celebrate what I did accomplish, the lessons I learned from experiences that didn’t go as planned, and to set realistic goals for the year ahead.

Overachievers face challenges too! We are all human and often add unnecessary stress and pressure to ourselves. I've decided to be kinder to myself and not let anything or anyone (especially my inner critic) convince me that I must "do blah blah blah" in order to make a difference. If the words we speak give life, I choose to speak positively to myself and to everyone I have the privilege of meeting, working with, and serving. I tend to be my own worst critic, as many people learn about themselves over time.

Kindness begins with ourselves. Yes, we may not check off every goal on our list, but that’s okay. What matters most is whether I did my best. Did I apply the discipline needed to achieve my goals, or did I spend too much time scrolling on my phone and watching videos of wolves howling (and yes, that may have been more time than I should have)? As I evaluate my wins and losses, I realize that each day is a choice to pursue my goals. I strive to give my best effort, then reflect with kindness on what didn’t go as planned so I can adjust my approach.

Each day is a gift that we often take for granted. This year, as I do every year, I created my list (and kept it realistic), reorganized my priorities, and continue counting my blessings not just day by day, but minute by minute.

Blessings,

Marcie