When you prepare for the new year, there are different avenues you can take. Check out the four categories below to set you on the right path.

Prepare for the New Year

I believe it is essential to take the time to reflect on what you have accomplished and what you still want to achieve. Don’t just roll into the new year without some intention or plan. Remember that you can create a life you love with your thoughts, words, beliefs, and actions, so take some time to figure out what you want that life to look like.

The universe cannot help unless you know where you want to go. It’s up to you to set that direction. Be clear on how you want to feel, what you want to do (generally), and what you no longer want to hang on to. It’s your life, and you get to create it, so be sure you follow the things that bring you joy!

Once you have set the direction you want to go in, pay attention to everything and everyone that is put on your path. Keep taking baby steps. The more you take, the more guidance will be sent your way.

I have broken down the posts into four categories. Pick the type of preparation that suits you best.

Reflection and Journal Prompts

These journal prompts will get you thinking about everything that happened this year and what you want to accomplish next. Journals are a way to acknowledge your past and learn how far you have come. Journal prompts are a great way to inspire your creativity and help with goal-setting through brainstorming and making lists.

The Best Self Reflection Questions for Your Review of 2020 – 2020 was a crazy year, but some of that still lingers. This will be a time in history that you should keep a record of!

16 Thoughtful Journal Prompts for Self Reflection

Happy Birthday To Me; My Year in Review

20 Journal Prompts for Setting and Activating Your Goals

 

Setting Intentions

Webster’s dictionary says intentions are “a determination to act in a certain way.”

The difference between setting a goal and setting an intention is that a goal is about achieving a specific outcome. In contrast, an intention is about developing a particular mindset or feeling. An intention is purposefully deciding how you want something to feel. It sets the mood and the vibe for your brain. (Taken from “How to Set an Intention” by In It For the Long Run)

So, how do you want to feel in the new year? Use some of the ideas in these posts to keep you focused.

How To Choose Your Word of The Year

Make a Point to Play This Year

51 Strong Affirmations for Success With Your New Goals

 

 

Resolutions or Monthly Challenges

One of the ways to keep life exciting is to try new things and get out of your comfort zone. So, as you prepare for the new year, here are a bunch of new things you might try that are different from the usual new year’s resolutions.

Unconventional New Year Resolutions 

15 Fun and Useful Monthly Challenges

30 Monthly Challenge Ideas Focused on Joy

 

Specific habits you might want to change.

Is there something you would like to stop doing? Here are a few posts with tips on how to do that.

Are You Ready to Stop Feeling Guilty About Taking Time for Yourself?

7 Must Try Ways to Stop the Negative Self Talk

Worrying is a Waste of Time Plus 11 Ways to Stop

How to Stop Living Up to Expectations of Others and Enjoy Your Own Life

11 Ways to Stop Being a People Pleaser

The first of the year is a good break and starting point to clarify what you want, but you can do these exercises anytime. The universe is always available and ready to pivot whenever you want. As you prepare for the new year, take control of your life and create one that brings you the most joy and happiness!