Do you have unfinished business left over from 2019? Before we can make a start on a new project, we need to clear a pathway and allocate calm space to begin. Mostly, this translates to having awareness of loose ends, paying attention to jobs left undone, and reminding ourselves of promises unfulfilled.  Seeing clearly when our environment is burdened with half-completed projects, unfinished to-do lists or clothes that don’t fit, is challenging. Commitment to creating an innovative year ahead means being ready to lessen the load, to clear out the old and create the new.

Accordingly, how do we get past the excuse “I just don’t have the time”. Unfortunately, most people don’t consider the long-term consequences of delayed action.  They give in to the two worst enemies of success:  taking the path of least resistance or wanting immediate gratification. So why is it hard to complete things? At times, we say ‘yes’ to far too many tasks, for fear of being perceived as the “bad guy”. Tasks may prove to be difficult or uncomfortable, so rather than deal with the discomfort, we choose to let unfinished business pile up and up.

How do we become more organized? More disciplined? Start by creating a list of all unfinished projects. Once the list is completed, choose four (4) things, I.E., career, finances, relationship, health and fitness, relaxation, or personal habits, and begin work immediately. Select tasks that will make the most difference to your present life. For example, allocate time with people you care about, complete household maintenance, clean out the junk drawers in the garage and sell all equipment that serves no purpose.

If the budget is tight, you could offer a friend an opportunity to negotiate a deal with you. Some folk enjoy cleaning homes and doing the weekly shopping. Others enjoy gardening. Many proficient people make their living providing help with administration tasks. If expensive Christmas presents meant you paid on the card. Decide to pay out your existing credit. No more spur-of-the-moment spending, rather a firm discipline around impulsive outlays. Lessen your financial load.

Many people find their work dull, uninspiring and lacking in challenge or satisfaction. Perhaps it is time to take stock. Is this career really the one for you? Does it involve your talents? Have you given thought to a completely new line of work? Take time out to reconnect with what makes your heart sing, then act. Setting up stages of change can be tremendously motivating.

Finally, is there someone with whom you need to make peace, keep a commitment, forgive and let go, or have a face- to face heartfelt conversation? Small variations contribute to lessening our load in a positive way. They assist us to live a fulfilling, joyful and exciting life. We make room for new people and new experiences to emerge. Lessening the load permits us to feel excited and energized. We rejoice in a sense of freedom and find harmony in our peaceful heart.

Yours in Therapy,

Jill Bayly.

References:

Canfield, J., (2005) The Success Principles. Harper Collins, London.