Leave Room. Ahead of the new year, I participated in a ritual burning exercise, to throw what I wanted to leave behind from 2024 into a fire, emptying my backpack of feelings and habits that would not serve me in the new year. It was a group activity and there was so much commonality in the themes of what we wanted to rid ourselves of for a fresh start. Guilt, lack of motivation, imposter syndrome, judgement, giving others more than we give ourselves, not prioritizing self-care…the list went on and on.
Once we made space by burning what did not advance us, the natural question was what did we want to bring in for the new year. My response: “nothing”. I want to keep space to see what shows up, what I will need to help me move forward. Space allows for the unknown, the unexpected and spontaneity.
When you go on vacation, you pack your bag with what you think you will need: weather, activities, dress up, dress down. Hopefully, you also leave room in the bag for souvenirs and gifts you will pick up along the way. Leaving room at the end of the year is the same. What gifts will show themselves in this new year? You will want to have room to accept those gifts and not feel overwhelmed by what you already have in your luggage.
As we begin this year, rather than set your path of intentions and resolutions, could you pick a few shifts you want to make, but leave room for what you may want to add in. For now, can you focus on one or two pivots instead of wholesale changes. Start small, log some wins, then move on with a renewed sense of accomplishment and resolve. Build momentum. See what is needed in the moment when the moment comes.
Leave room:
For what presents itself as opportunities (or challenges) to face in the moment.
For spontaneity and the unknown.
To build upon the growth which has not revealed itself yet.
For people, places and adventure that have not been contemplated.
To learn and grow.
To rest and renew.
For the magic that will appear. Don’t be too busy to miss it.
What do you want to leave room for? If the bags are fully packed, you may not have space for the gifts that will show up. Leave room.