The start of a new year is always so exciting because January 1st is the day we wipe the slate clean… or do we??
One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is lacking intention in the way they approach the new year – and without intention we’re basically flying blind.
Don’t bring 2014 files into 2015. Start this new story from a truly blank page. Make a commitment to close out 2014 – much like we do when cleaning out our office files and placing them in storage or discarding items we no longer need or don’t want to keep as we move forward.
With this post, I hope to inspire you to think intentionally about what you file away for 2015. And to consider the subconscious baggage you’re bringing along for the new year ride.
Check out my Annual Self-Reflection Digital Workbook and Life Visioning & Goal Setting Toolkit.
What to file away for 2014:
Resentment: This is the first thing that needs to go. If you’re holding on to any past wrongs, let them go. They only hold you down, not the person you’re determined to hold a grudge against.
Hurt: It takes a lot of strength to let go of past hurt and pain but you will be so much better for it. Just. Let. Go.
Fear: Has no place in the new year. Period. Take the leap. Over, and over again. You will fail, you will fumble, you will fall. But the best part: You will get back up again, you will learn, you will grow.
Judgement: You don’t know someone’s story, nor do they know yours. Abandon judgement and remain invested in the human experience.
Stagnation: Don’t allow another year to go by without you moving forward. Leave inaction behind for good.
What to file away for 2015:
Gratitude: Start a daily gratitude journal. Purposely seek what you can appreciate in all things. Look for the best in everyone and everything. It’s life-changing. And well worth the effort.
Joy: Be happy on purpose! Just do it. It feels great, I promise. Smile for no reason, get excited, be engaged, and demonstrate affection for those you hold dear.
Confidence: Remember, nobody has the power to knock you off your pedestal but you. Be proud of yourself. Believe in you. Be optimistic and go after what you really want.
Love: Wholly, freely, and without reservation. Bring it. Pour it. Repeat. Never hold back!
Action: Reflect, live on purpose, and make a plan. Develop SMART goals that align with your core desires and values. Execute. Implement. Basically be like Nike… Just Do It!
I want to hear from you!
What will you file away for 2015? Please leave a comment below and let’s have a discussion.
Comments 33
These are some great tips. So many of us carry hurts, pain etc in our lives from one year to another. We can’t change what happened in the past but we can work on changing the direction of our future. Thank you so much for sharing. I will use these tips. You are a wise woman
This would be a much happier world if people listened to your advice!
I filed away all the negativity in my life….no more stress…life is good.
Inspiring post! I know it sounds “Pollyanna-ish” but I do believe that you need to smile to be happy – even if you’re in a funk, smiling for no reason whatsoever seems to at least take the edge off!
As for this year, I have 1 simple commitment: visiting mom more often. I wish you achieve your goals.
This is definitely a wonderful post with very nice resolutions. Thank you for sharing them.
‘Without intention, we are basically flying blind” – yep! So powerful! I have a feeling this year will be a defining year, good scary! Great post!
This is a neat way of looking at things Carin!! I wish it were that ‘clean’ of a filing system for me, but I see some murky papers lingering unable to find their file just yet. Those are the files I need to keep open longer to really resolve and heal, ya know?
I will surely take you up on the 2015 files!!
Author
I feel you on that Christine – I know there are somethings that don’t allow for such a clean break… I’m glad you’re going to focus on bigger and better for 2015!
Here’s to saying goodbye to the fear and embracing the happy. I want to do that.
Author
^5 Yes!
Thanks so much Carin! I am filing CONFUSION away in 2014 and letting CLARITY take its place in 2015. In the past I’ve claimed “confusion” anytime my vision felt too big for me. This year…Imma stop playing. Stepping into my greatness and embracing the clarity I’ve always had.
Author
I’m so with you on that… no more confusion! Good stuff!
Awesome post! I indeed keep gratitude as my number one thing to file away in 2015 and beyond. I took part in the one word challenge and the word I’m focusing on more this year is create. I’m creating more opportunities in both my personal and professional life.
Author
I love that you said ‘create more opportunities’ – that’s the key… make it happen!
Love this Carin! I’m filing away other people’s opinons (real or perceived) of me, and ready to stand tall and dominate in 2015. This year is all about embracing who I am and the gifts I have to offer in this world. I’m ready to play bigger 🙂
Author
I’m so with you on that! ^5 Play bigger – love it! Let’s do this!
Love, LOVE this post! I’m filing away fear and Doing It Afraid! Happy New Year
Author
YES *pound*thumbs up* to doing it afraid! Happy New Year!
I am saying farewell to fear for 2015! It has got to go!
Author
^5 I’m with you on that!
I definitely want more clarity and direction in the year. I spent a lot of time second guessing my business choices. Thanks for sharing.
Author
Same here! I spent a lot of time in uncertainty during 2014. Not this year!
I’m loving all of these resolutions and plans to reach new heights in 2015. I’ve logged in some great memories from 2014 and noted some lessons learned. I’m looking forward to 2015 and all that I plan to make happen during the year. #blmgirls
Author
Yes! So much to look forward to… 2015 will definitely be the best year yet..;-)
Gratitude journal – yes, it’s hard to keep. Once I get back in my daily fitness routine, I’ll tackle that again. Thanks!
Author
It certainly takes a lot of practice to get into the habit! Happy to hear that you’ll be starting back up..;-)
“…nobody has the power to knock you off your pedestal but you.” Love that! Thank you for sharing these positive intentions for the new year. #blmgirls
Author
Thanks for stopping by Tiffani! Happy New Year..:-)
This is great and so true and important. I do these things on a daily basis (e.g. forgiveness/dealing with wrongs, hurts, etc., gratitude, goals) but the new year is a great time to take a look at them as well.
Author
Great point Leanne! I also practice these things daily – it’s an ongoing process for sure..:-)
I love this Carin! These entire post speaks to my heart. I am kicking fear to the curb and inviting joy into my life. Feeling refreshed in the New year and I intend to keep it that way.
Author
YES! Love it! ^5 Let’s do this 2015!