Acting As If

We’re already at the end of the first week of the new year. I am sure you are well on your way to achieving your goals. However, if things have gotten off to a rocky start, just remember you can start fresh with this moment and know that you don’t have to continue the pattern. Just because you’ve gotten into a certain mindset, doesn’t mean you must stay with it, especially when it isn’t working.

“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go. They merely determine where you start.”

Nido Qubein

It’s important to remember that no matter what has happened in the past – no matter the negative, unhappy situations, thoughts, or beliefs you have had, you are ALWAYS free to generate new, positive thoughts, feelings, and experiences. You absolutely have within you the power to transcend your old, unhelpful habits and create new beneficial ones. Start by being mindful of what you’re thinking and consciously reframing any of your thoughts and behaviors that need tweaking as you move toward the goal you have in mind.

For example, instead of saying something negative such as, “I’m going to lose weight by going on a diet”, or, “I have to get out of debt”, phrase it in a positive context like, “I love being my optimal weight which happens easily as I make healthier food choices”, or “I enjoy having financial freedom to easily pay my bills.” No matter what your goal is, you can apply this, and the shift from negative to positive statements is profound as you implement the actions needed to set yourself up for success.

“So what if, instead of thinking about solving your whole life, you just think about adding additional good things. One at a time. Just let your pile of good things grow.”

Rainbow Powell

As you continue practicing, you will facilitate opportunities for growth, because growth is the result of change; in other words, the changes you make will slowly but surely add up to a huge shift in your life. No matter what your new year’s resolution is, everyone’s ultimate goal is to be happy. In whatever form you have chosen to represent it, the end result is something you feel will make you happier. But there is no reason to delay happiness until you reach your goal by thinking, “I’ll be happy when (this happens). I’ll be happy if (that changes).” Don’t limit yourself by acting as if you can’t be happy yet.

“Be grateful for what you already have while you pursue your goals. If you aren’t grateful for what you already have, what makes you think you would be happy with more?”

Roy T. Bennett

One way to begin realizing your desired end result is to act as if you already have what you want. Be grateful and happy where you are and with what you have right now, then go from there. Focus on the goodness that is already in your life which will continue to add to your overall happiness as you make progress toward achieving your next goal.

“Approach the New Year with resolve to find the opportunities hidden in each new day.”

Michael Josephson