I know – it’s not December yet, and I’m already thinking about the one thing I intend to do in 2016. I feel a pull around mid-November to look ahead and think about what I want out of the next calendar year. The last two weeks of December are a combination of dinners, movies, get-togethers and late nights wrapping last-minute gifts. There’s magic in that, yes. But the quiet reflection of what was and the hopeful anticipation of what’s to come is a beautiful space. And I like to sit here, in that space, and set my intention. It’s an interesting concept – to claim something that has so many variables. In reality, we don’t actually know what a year holds. But we can go forth with a mindset that will allow us to ride the ups and downs; settling into that mindset is part of setting intentions for the new year.
The one thing I intend to do in 2016 is shine.
Over the last few years, I have been an archaeologist, digging into my core, recovering evidence of who I truly am. I’ve unearthed bits and pieces: a writer, a musician, a teacher, a Nature-lover and a participant in the circle of giving. With each recovery, each remembrance of who I am and what truly fulfills me, I’ve added to my life more joy and purpose. Launching this blog 4 years ago was instrumental in my quest for an authentic life; as I have been writing content and creating workbooks to help you on your journey, I’ve made enormous strides in letting ME out.
So, now on the cusp of a new year, I hold in my hand these shiny bits of my soul. These sparkly things that light me up and that I hope light up those around me. I am a writer with messages that get people thinking and feeling, and I teach others to use writing as a healing tool. I am a pianist who fills her home with soulful sounds. My kids know I love mossy trees. In fact, I am certain trees will be a part of my legacy. And I try in whatever way I can to give – not because I have more or am more, but because I knowΒ that the shiny bits inside me also exist in every single person out there. And everyone deserves the chance to shine.
Including me.
I wrote here about how fully stepping into who I am will result in a domino of change, and that change can feel scary. But I think what is even more scary to me is being 90-something years old, on my deathbed, and wishing I had done what I had come here to do. And what is even more motivating, is knowing that I am not guaranteed those 90-something years. On the brink of a new year, when I am reminded of the passage of time, that is the thought that propels me forward.
In 2016, I intend to write more, play music more, get out and experience more, and serve, serve, serve.
In 2016, I intend to shine.
Is it too early for you to start thinking about your guiding word for the new year? I’d love to hear your intention in the comments!
I love that you are thinking of this already and “shine” seems like a wonderful fit for you. I would like to narrow my goal for the year into a word and I’m not sure what it will be…something along the lines of “just be” “rest” “love”…I don’t know. We started as foster parents this year and it’s been a life-changing journey and I need to take the time to just be, rest and love.
Hi Louise – all of those words sound lovely. I’m sure the foster parent journey will show you what you need to incorporate in your life. And maybe it will be a few key words. I like things in 3 and your 3 that you suggested in your comment sound perfect.
Love this post! And I love that you are going to shine in the new year. One of my main words for the upcoming year will be Happiness and now they will include some shining as well as empowered. I am surrounded by lots of inspiring women!
You’re inspiring yourself, Salma! I wish you a shiny, happy and empowered year. Can’t wait to spend more time with you in 2016 π
When your soul shines then souls around you shine as well. Spread the light.
Thanks, Dad – very true! We each have shiny stuff inside us and sometimes we give others permission to shine when we make it a priority in our own lives.
That was my intentions in 2015 – To write more, to share more, to be comfortable in my skin and not fear what someone would think about my ‘different’ thoughts or choices. I feel I have been successful in that goal.
I also made another goal somewhere in the middle of year, to stop waiting for a Monday or the 1st of a month, or a new year to start something new. So definitely I think it is not at all early to start thinking about next year’s place. In fact I would say just start doing them right away! π
I hope you shine bright like a diamond! π
Hi Tanvi! FABULOUS – I love that…not waiting till a future date to start something new. Otherwise, we’re always in limbo. Thanks for sharing and for your good wishes. Hope your 2016 is wonderful!
Love it. I would include shine in my list too. π
Hi Vidhya – shine is a beautiful word, isn’t it? Hope you take many opportunities to shine in 2016!
Goosebumps. You are such a bright light, Taslim. All I want to do is soak it all in. π What a beautiful 2016 intention. Thank you for sharing. P.S I love how you described that space that is December <3
You’re the BEST, Nat – and when you shine you light me right up, too!
I found your blog last night while strolling through my Instagram feed -searching for (#spiritualbloggers) I clicked on one of your photos and then on to your website (blog) I went. I read a couple of post and fell in love with your message. I’ve been on a spiritual journey for the past 5 years and I continue to grow and learn. That is why I love connecting with like minded individuals in person or online. It’s such a relief to find people who feel the same way I do, or think in a similar way.
As for this post, I don’t think it’s too early for 2016 intentions. In fact, I usually do the same. Unlike most, I celebrate New Years in November (long story) and therefore always set my intentions for the coming year each November. I loved all of yours and I think I should do the same. More writing. More music. More serving.
π
Well, I’m really late to the game in replying to your comment – so sorry! I’m so glad we found each other! I’ve been enjoying your posts on Instagram. Hope your 2016 is all you dream it to be!