2017: A No Resolution New Year

(Originally posted in the Huffington Post on December 22, 2016.)

This time each year, so many of us set New Year's resolutions. We aspire to be healthier, get in better shape, and possibly change our appearances. Making resolutions is easy to do. What's more valuable may be the daily dedication to a fitness practice, one that gives so much more than it takes. Lowering stress, regulating blood pressure, boosting your mood - these are just a few of the ways staying fit, rather than getting fit - qualify as self-love. This new year, let's forget resolutions and take a moment to reflect on just how far we've come.

Don't get me wrong, it's great to set goals and work toward them. But the beauty of a new year is that it also allows us to look back and recognize milestones we've achieved already. What if we saw the New Year as a time to appreciate all that we've done since the previous year, and the progress we've made?

Maybe 2016 was a year of learning more about yourself, or you moved to a new city, got engaged, quit a harmful habit, received a promotion at work, or even just reconnected with an old friend. The point is that it is important to recognize the positives that came out of the past year. Look at the strides you've made to becoming the person you hope to be. The beauty of humanity is that we have a desire to keep moving forward, to improve the quality of our lives and the lives of others. Take a break and look at where you are today. Give yourself kudos!

Once you acknowledge your own accomplishments, take a moment to recognize the progress people around you have made. Give them the good old pat-on-the-back for working hard all year long. Spread the love and cheer for the new year!