As a Capricorn, I’ve always relished new beginnings and the opportunity to start fresh. Every new year, to me, is a gift to leave the past behind and place energy into hope for the future. This year, that hope might be a bit harder to conjure for many of us. Last year was full of difficulties, and the new year doesn’t change the fact that we are still living with a lot of uncertainty. But today, we’re here to focus on the new year and all the opportunities and possibilities that come with it.
On my Instagram Live this Monday, I found myself reflecting on a quote from Maya Angelou: “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” That is certainly true of this year; none of us can stop the pandemic from happening or ensure that everyone we know and love remains safe. It can be so easy to feel overwhelmed by these big events that shape life around us; this state of mind can swallow us whole if we allow it. I’ve found in times like these that a shift in perspective is in order; like Maya Angelou said, we can decide not to be reduced. We can focus on the factors within our control, shift our gaze from the darkness and work to embrace light instead.
This year on my birthday, I was reminded that beautiful things can happen in the most unexpected places and ways. I felt nervous leading up to it, worried that this year would feel so different. Instead, between the celebrations from my friends at The Talk, a beautiful drive-through electric lights display and a gorgeous birthday cake to share with the people I love the most, I’ve never felt more held or loved. Just because many elements looked different than previous years didn’t mean there wasn’t plenty to treasure and enjoy. A simple shift in perspective, to embrace and lift up the things I was thankful to have instead of focusing on what I was missing, enabled me to feel so much joy, positivity and gratitude.
I know this coming year won’t always be easy; I’m sure we have challenges and obstacles to come that will vie for our attention and attempt to extinguish our joy. But I hope for every one of these obstacles, we are able to fix our focus on happiness and growth and use our energy to create changes that invigorate us. Whether it’s changing a corner of your home to make it your own or discovering a new fitness routine that you love or making a commitment to loving yourself as much as you love your partner, there is promise and potential in any change you strive to make.
Happy new year, and I hope that each of us can find the wonderful gift of the new.
Wishing you all the best, stay happy and healthy.
With love,
Carrie Ann
