It’s tough not to spend the last month of the year reflecting on what has passed, but also planning for what’s to come. It’s a natural process – and a good one – for making sure you take some time to appreciate all life has offered you, but also how you can be your best self in the year to come. For many, 2016 was a year full of big challenges and roadblocks – and perhaps you’ve developed some fears about what’s to come. But, taking the time to reassess and look to the real successes you experienced can easily help you overcome those feelings of hesitancy, giving you free reign to reach for the stars. Not sure how to get to that place of total optimism? Here’s a look at some ideas for moving away from fear in 2017 and achieving everything you want.
How to Let Go of Fear in 2017
Spend time reflecting. We often don’t take enough time to reflect on the experiences we have in life. But, when you do – it’s amazing what you’ll learn and how you’ll do things better the next time. Reminding yourself to go through the process of self-reflection can easily become a habit that will help you turn fears into wins. Take some time to make a list of the experiences you’ve had in 2016 that really deserve some thought. Once you have that list, take a little time each day from now until the end of the year to walk through each experience. What did you do well? What could you have handled better? And, how will you make sure you transition those learnings to your next similar experience?
Make sure that exercise becomes a mainstay in your life. Sounds like such a simple solution, right? Well, turns out – it really is. Take time (even if it’s 15 minutes) to get outside and walk, run or simply throw a ball for the dog in the backyard. Fresh air is amazing when it comes to really thinking about a project, a tough situation or what you need to do next to move forward. When you’ve had the chance to self-reflect, fears often melt away becoming inspiration for setting new, even bigger goals.
Talk about your fears with your partner or a close friend. That is what friends are for and the same goes for your love. Getting your fears out on the table with someone who wants the best for you is a great way to sort through why you’re feeling fearful and what you need to do to leave that behind and move forward. Not sure how to approach that conversation? Make a list! It will keep you on track and help to make sure you cover everything that you need a listening ear for.
Practice meditation. That may sound really daunting and difficult. But, you know what? Once you get it down, you’ll be absolutely amazed at what it does for clearing the clutter of your mind. You’ll feel lighter, freer and as though you have the strength and fortitude to tackle anything that comes your way. Start small with short two or three minute meditations – even if it’s simply deep breathing with no distractions. Putting things into perspective will start to come much more easily and will fall perfectly into place.
Do you have fears that you want to overcome, making the New Year one of confidence and fortitude? Try some of these tactics – or share one that works for you!
