December is a great month to evaluate my direction.

This year has been full of surprises. Many of us have had to pause in multiple areas of our lives as the pandemic overtook the world. As much of the world begins to slowly find their feet in this new normal we now live and we enter the last month of the year I am reminded that we don't need to wait till January to make changes in our lives. We can begin anytime by taking a personal inventory of sorts. Taking time regularly to evaluate our direction, self talk and intentions are also effective tools to monitor and maintain our mental health and wellbeing.

December is a great month to evaluate my direction.

In my reflection and evaluation of all that this year has taught me I am conscious of evaluating what I have learned through the lens of compassion. I notice my thoughts and sift through them with compassion.

I choose my intentions and frame my affirmations so that they accurately reflect my values, goals and dreams considering all that is present in my life right now.

Intentions are powerful. The brain regions involved in setting ‘intentions’ are connected to the regions involved when we act. As a result, firing up those brain regions involved in intention will start to fire up your action centers. Intentions need to be strong enough and believable for action to occur.

Here are a few reflective questions you may like to ponder before adapting the following affirmations to suit your own needs/ values/ dreams and goals.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. How has my direction changed this year?

2. Is there anything I need to let go of?

3. How could I be more compassionate to myself?

4. What new strengths did I discover this year?

Self-talk / Affirmations:

My life has purpose and meaning. I live with authenticity and integrity. I make choices that align with my values and make progress each day.

I am receptive to learning new things and willing to try new things and step out of my comfort zone. I take worthwhile risks and grow with each experience. I read books, listen to podcasts, and try my best to learn and grow continuously. I am open to change.

I trust my instincts. I listen to my inner voice and pay attention to the things that make me feel happy and fulfilled.

I am comfortable moving at my own pace.

I maintain healthy boundaries and prioritise my own needs recognising that I cannot give from an empty cup. I can ask for help when it is needed. I welcome constructive feedback.

I maintain balance. I work towards my goals and take time off to rest. I take care of my physical and mental wellbeing with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

I have regular practices that nourish and feed my faith and sense of hope. Meditation and prayer help me to identify my priorities and nourish and care for myself. I devote my time and energy to the activities that provide myself and others with the greatest value.

I take action when needed even when it is uncomfortable. I work towards my goals. I build relationships and tackle projects that allow me to grow and build on my individual strengths. I use my leisure time to nurture my inner world and care for my whole self, physically, mentally and physically. I contribute to my community.

Today, I choose to continue moving forward. My life is fuller when I believe and look after myself and follow my own path.

Please drop me an email or comment and like this article if this has helped you today.

With much compassion

Rossy