Today’s tidbit: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future.” ―  Steve Jobs

A new year symbolizes a clean slate; a fresh start. Leaving the past behind and embracing the magic of new beginnings and possibilities. We let go of all regret and failure from the year behind us, and fill our lungs with hope for the future.

I have always enjoyed checking things off a list, turning the page and starting fresh. There is something refreshing about a new day, a new month, a new year. This year however, I have decided instead of making a New Year’s resolution, I will instead make New Year’s Affirmations…

For last year’s words belong to last year’s language and next year’s words await another voice. — T.S. Eliot

Be sure to click below to read more and check out more pictures. Enjoy!

 

As I write this post, I am watching the snow fall, covering everything in a blanket of white (big snow storm hitting the USA/east coast). January is almost over and it’s time to wrap up 2014, after all it is 2015!

 

 

{affirmations}

Just imagine …

These affirmations, contrary to the tradition of resolutions, can be changed and repeated daily. I believe they will not only help me to have a happy and fulfilled 2015, but will also help to analyze 2014 and recognize the things I would like to change/improve.

As I said, these can be changed but for now they are:

be open
Open to ideas, change, knowledge, differences, people, cultures, foods, opinions, thoughts and possibilities.

appreciate and understand timing
Time is valuable. I will not waste mine nor other people’s. Once time has passed it can not be reused or regained. It is precious but also can not be forced. 

embrace the journey
No matter how much you plan, there will be bumps in the road. Unexpected turns often lead to undiscovered treasures… perhaps where you should be and didn’t even realize it. I will try to not let it frustrate me and instead enjoy and embrace it all.

random act of kindness
One small, thoughtful gesture can make someone else’s day… and I plan on doing one every day.

believe
In myself. In the good of others. Where I currently am and where I am trying to go. Stop worrying what others think, do what makes you happy.

save
Work hard to save money in order to do the things I want to do. Follow my passion and dreams while finding a balance between stability and spontaneity.

adjust your focus
Focus on what I really want to do and where I want to be… and understand it’s ok for it to keep changing. For now that is to continue with design, but focus on blogging, travel and photography more.

travel
Travel near and far. Live abroad. Explore new places. Embrace different cultures. Meet new people.

challenge
Keep pushing myself. Don’t be afraid to go off the path, and continuously create new paths. Remember, if it doesn’t challenge you it doesn’t change you. Get out of your comfort zone. Allow yourself to grow.

gratitude
Give thanks. Remember everything I am fortunate to have and be able to do. Life is a gift, don’t waste it and don’t forget to count all your blessings.

Will you make a New Year’s resolution this year? Or will you make New Year’s Affirmations?

 

 

{2014 highlights} Wrapping up 2014 with 2 big events.

1. My sister and her husband graduated from medical school and are officially doctors!

 

2. Letting go and saying goodbye to Bailey, who moved to Texas. Not an easy thing to do.
Read more: Saying goodbye to Bailey

 

I was also very fortunate to be able to travel a lot in 2014, which I shared last week.
Read more: 2014 Travel Highlights

 

 

{one thing I’ve learned}

 

 

{cheers to 2015!}

 

Instead of making the post so personal, like last years New Year’s reflection, I wanted to focus on affirmations and some food for thought. What do you think?

Happy New Year! Wishing you all health, happiness, and harmony.