Most people make a concerted effort to begin something new at the beginning of the year. Resolutions are made, kept and broken. That time of change or setting intentions, goals, seem to work best for many people. I have, on occasions, engaged in the fantasy of embarking on some new way of being, creating a great list of to do’s. I have also been caught up in the frenzy of the “required resolutions” at that time of year.
I am not trying to be critical. I simply want to acknowledge what has been popular in this and other societies, and what has worked for a lot of people. I can’t quite remember how successful I have been in making those types of resolutions.
I take pleasure in being introspective.
The prophetic and poignant time for me to embark on a major shift in my life is around my birthday. At that time, I take pleasure in being introspective. I reflect on the past year, the challenges and the successes. Mostly, as I mature, what’s even more important for me are the experiences for which I am grateful and the lives I’ve intersected with and hopefully touched in meaningful ways.
The pause gives nourishment to my soul.
The pause gives nourishment to my soul. It gives purpose in my being, joy to the possibilities, and expectancy to what is yet to pass. I am grateful that I came into this incarnation at the changing of the seasons. I think of the beginning of Autumn: endings and the beginnings; the Alpha and Omega; the Yin and the Yang. My passions and purpose so richly encapsulates the duality of who I am. I appreciate my ability to be in synch with and respectful of the changes, the differences and the sameness – the diversity in all of my life!
My children continue to inspire me as I observe their lives, the partners they have chosen, their parenting styles, their work habits and careers, their love of life and their uncompromising connection to community. I trust that their contribution to the next generation will make a difference because of the values they foster in their children and continue to instill in themselves. I am inspired by clients who have trusted me with their insecurities, uncertainties, and deep longings for a different way of being. I think of their hopes, their dreams, their desires, their aspirations and their wants. They are willing to walk the path of the unknown with trust, exhilaration, timidity and total abandon. They inspire and humble me beyond belief!
As I honor myself and the passing of another year, I remain committed and dedicated to seeing the very best in each individual – mostly to see the best in me. I want to continue developing my skills as a coach, do my work with enthusiasm, compassion and love. I want to be awed by the mysteries of not knowing and to honor and respect my interdependence. Integrity is essential to my personal and professional life; it will allow me to listen more, be open and correct my course when necessary. I yearn to be authentically me – no matter what. I want to live with passion so that every moment and every breath I take matters. I want my life to be an inspiration. I want to give selflessly. If I can live up to any of these in the next year, I will know my life has meaning, and I can again set my intentions for another year. Life is in a constant state of becoming. We are ever shifting, ever changing and ever BE-ING. Everything takes place whether we are conscious of it or not. We are all kindred spirits on this journey. I see you whole and complete as I am. I intend to live my best life ever – beginning right now!
So here are some questions for YOU to ponder:
- Are you living your best life?
- What mediocrity are you tolerating?
- Do you take time for you?
- On a scale of 1-10 (1 being not at all, 10 being off the hook!), how committed are you to the quality of life you choose?
These and other life changing questions can be answered when you take a stand for being the best – YOUR BEST! Get a free 30 minute session with Coach Pauline to put you on the road to your greatest shift!
Do it now. This is your life, not a dress rehearsal.
© 2012, Pauline Haynes. All rights reserved.
Pauline Haynes is a Life Coach with the uncanny ability to help you identify what truly inspires you and helps you focus your life around those things that bring you joy, purpose and satisfaction.
