Let it be easy. Breathe. Move forward, one tiny step at a time. This is a new beginning, a fresh start. You can begin this year with a clean slate—decide how to approach 2012 on your own terms. Embrace the uncertainty. Celebrate the journey of mindfully entering this new year.
These were the thoughts running through my mind last night, prior to the clock striking midnight. While these simple mantras seem uplifting and helpful, they actually made the transition more stressful and emotional for me. I so wanted to usher in the new year with a completely clean slate, but in reality, is that really practical? NO!
I felt numb, paralyzed by the pressure of trying to get myself into this positive mindset by midnight. I didn’t know how to simply let go of this “ideal” that I had crafted—to embrace my perfectly imperfect reality, to face the transition from a place of self-compassion.
Five minutes before the clock struck midnight, standing amid a crowd of people dancing and smiling, I pulled my husband into the hallway. I held him close, leaned my face onto his shoulder, and released the emotions holding me hostage. I cried, tears streaming down my face, and felt so grateful. I felt loved not only by my husband, but most importantly by myself. I let myself simply be “me” in the moment. I didn’t have to have the “perfect” transition into 2012.
One minute before the clock struck midnight, my face still a bit wet from the tears, I joined my family and huddled alongside my husband to ring in the new year. It was absolutely perfect. I felt liberated by simply listening to my intuition. I finally felt ready for this new year, ready to face what lies ahead and better prepared to let go of seemingly well crafted plans when my intuition sways me in a different direction.
Now, standing on the other side of the bridge, let’s begin to unravel 2012. Are you ready to begin?
image: simply hue
