It's commonplace at this time of year to look back on the past twelve months and assess all the things we have overcome, achieved and learned. Depending on what life threw at us; yearly retrospectives can sometimes be relatively difficult to work through, but they're worth the effort if we're really intentional about wanting to move forward with purpose.
Let’s face it, saying that life has its ups and downs is expressing it mildly. A more accurate descriptor would be there are cycles of advancement and regression, reworking and awakening, unpleasantness and pleasure, even chaos and calm; with many other experiences in-between that may make it difficult, at times, to show ourselves some kindness and understanding.
Our self-worth is something we should nurture and protect. Maintaining boundaries that reflect our authentic selves can ensure we are surrounded by people that foster genuine connections based on nurturing reciprocity.
Aiming to live authentically helps create a sense of purpose and fulfillment that's rooted in recognizing our self-worth. It's an evolving process throughout our life's journey deeply connected to what resonates most within our principles, responsibilities, boundaries, words and actions.
I use daily affirmations to disrupt my negative inner voice; which situational stress, anxiety and depression have recently made more prominent. Initially, it feels like these motivational phrases are just hollow attempts at ego-boosting, but they really can improve and retrain our mindset if we give them a chance. We're worthy of treating ourselves with kindness and care -- we should celebrate our potential.
Alongside our studies, jobs or careers, there can frequently be persistent pressure in our personal lives to always stay motivated or constantly pursue the next goal; being productive is often seen as the most significant sign of success in our lives.
Setting boundaries that help improve our lives by maintaining our mental health and emotional well-being should be seen for what they are; a necessary kindness we show ourselves that nourishes and restores. It's essential we remind ourselves about this every now and then ...
We are not passive outsiders to nature. The natural world is as much a part of us as we are a part of it. It’s no wonder that spending time amongst its regrowth, resiliency and beauty can encourage us to find lessons and remedies that improve our mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.
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