Four Steps to Having An Empowering And Productive New Year!
Hey Ladies,
Welcome to 2024! I pray that 2023 was filled with both blessings and lessons!
If you've been around for a while, you know that everything we do in this community is geared towards you and me becoming everything that God has intended for us to be. Which means that we prioritize our mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health above all else.
The other day while I was loading laundry I noticed an unsettling feeling in my chest. And because I’ve disciplined myself to turn towards my feelings instead of overriding them, I was able to discover that what I was feeling was the emotion of desire.
Yes, desire!
You might be asking, how can desire feel unsettling or heavy?
Truth is, last year was an amazing year for me personally and for Sound Happiness. I saw success in every area of my life. But still, I desired more. More was actually my word for 2023. (more on having “a word for the year” later)
This word challenged me because I had to get comfortable with not only decreeing and declaring that I live in a state of abundance, but I also had to confront all of my programming that said receiving abundance was somehow wrong. That when I saw that good good manifestation of blessing, I should be grateful and not desire anything more.
It was at this intersection of “Jannah, you should be grateful” and “Jannah, you desire more” that started feeling icky in my soul. And if you’ve worked with or been around me, you know I have zero tolerance for ickiness in my soul!
Why? Because desire left unchecked can turn into frustration which can eventually turn into self-loathing that can then eventually turn into severe conditions like depression or substance abuse. Even the Bible says hope deferred can make your heart sick, BUT when desire is fulfilled it is a tree of life. (Proverbs 12:14 AMP)
My mission today is to get you comfortable with turning towards your feelings by setting time aside to evaluate what you’re feeling and what you desire to accomplish in 2024 before this month is over.
Following is an overview of how I structure my reflection and planning time each year. Feel free to steal whatever works for you and toss what doesn’t.
Let’s get into it – Jannah’s four steps to having an empowering and productive new year:
Step 1: Define Your Goals with Clarity
First things first, let's get crystal clear on what you want to achieve. Take a moment to sit down with a cup of your favorite tea and visualize your dreams. Break them down into specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. When you have a clear roadmap, you empower yourself to navigate the journey ahead.
Step 2: Embrace Self-Compassion
Let's talk about that inner critic. You know, that little voice in your head that sometimes whispers doubts and fears. It's time to replace those negative whispers with the empowering roar of self-compassion. Treat yourself with the kindness and understanding you would offer to a dear friend facing a challenge. Remember, you're a magnificent work in progress, and every step forward is a victory.
Step 3: Break It Down, Take It On
Break your goals into manageable steps. Don't overwhelm yourself by trying to tackle everything at once. Progress is progress, no matter how small. Each step forward is a triumph, and you're capable of achieving greatness. Celebrate your victories along the way, and don't forget to acknowledge the strength within you.
Step 4: Cultivate a Supportive Tribe
Surround yourself with empowering and uplifting women who believe in your journey. Share your goals with those who inspire and encourage you. Together, we rise, and a supportive community can be the wind beneath your wings. Remember, you are not alone on this path, and your dreams are valid.
As your sister and fellow explorer, I encourage you to step into your power! Define your goals, be kind to yourself, take it one step at a time, and let your tribe lift you higher. You're on your way to becoming the incredible woman you were born to be! 💖
Refer to it often and share it with a fellow resilience warrior so that they can join you on the journey!
xo - Jannah
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