Embracing the future – bring on the new year!

Can you believe we’re about to dive into another year? 2023 flew by ~ at least for me.

But before we go full-speed ahead embracing the future, let’s look back at this past year. We’re standing on the cusp of a new year, and it’s only natural to reflect on the journey behind us and look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead.

The upcoming year offers a blank canvas, waiting to be painted with the brushstrokes of our aspirations, dreams, and endeavors. In this blog post, let’s explore the mindset of looking ahead to the next year with optimism and enthusiasm.

Reflecting on the past:

Each year there are highs and lows and plenty of lessons learned. Before we dive into the future, I think it’s essential to take a moment to reflect on the year that is coming to a close. What were the triumphs and challenges we faced? What lessons did we learn? Reflection allows us to acknowledge our growth, celebrate achievements, and gain insight into areas for improvement.

Lessons I’ve learned:

• Keep learning – never stop!
• Be mindful – of your relationships as well as what you do
• Find joy each day

Boy, that last one is hard for me right now! I have had Covid and now my hubby does too. I’ve been on the couch for almost two weeks. But each day I search for things to make me smile. Maybe I can FaceTime my granddaughters or call my mom. I’ve watched Charlie Brown Christmas several times. Finding joy each day is very important to me.

Setting intentions and goals while embracing the future:

As we step into the new year, setting intentions and goals becomes a crucial part of the journey. What do we hope to achieve personally and professionally? I asked on social media for people’s input on goal setting. I had a wide variety of answers, from goal setting in all areas to leaving goals very open-ended for flexibility.

I think it’s important – even vital – to set goals that work FOR you and your personality.

I’ve never been one to set goals, but this year I’m setting a few:

• Publish my first cozy mystery, Birds Alive!, in February 2024
• Finish writing my 2nd in that series by June 2024
• Find a publisher for my women’s fiction novel
• Have at least 2 blog posts a month

I know those are all writing related, but that’s okay!

Embracing change:

Years ago, we were moving (again), and I came up with a mantra: I like change; change is good. I didn’t believe it, but I had to keep moving forward. So I did.

Change is inevitable, and the coming year will undoubtedly bring its share of transformations. Instead of fearing change, let’s embrace it as an opportunity for growth. You might learn a new technology, explore a different career path, or choose an area that you want to grow personally.

Being open to change allows us to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of life.

Cultivating Resilience:

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adversity. Also known as adapting or being tough.

It doesn’t sound like fun, but as we embrace the new year, cultivating resilience is crucial. Learning to view challenges as opportunities for learning and growth can help us face them positively.

And that leaves room for FAITH. Faith is such an intricate part of who I am and what I believe and do. I can’t imagine looking behind or ahead without it.

How are you embracing the future?

Next year is not just a continuation of time but a canvas waiting for our life. Whether you paint in small lines or big strokes – it doesn’t matter. Do YOU. Do what works for YOU. Embrace the future that is yours and find the growth you need.

Here’s to embracing the future and making it a year filled with growth, joy, and fulfillment!

Read My Ultimate Writing Goals, then follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to my newsletter to keep up with news about my book and any special offers! Be sure you grab your FREE 10-step checklist to plan your novel when you subscribe!

Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married 37 years, have 5 amazing kids and 3 adorable grandkids. I homeschooled our three youngest children. I used to blog about homeschooling and taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)