Twenty Twenty, Coming Ready Or Not

I think it is so important to take a break, refresh and re-set at the end of each year. For absolutely everyone.

Those days between Christmas and New Year, when the world quietens, are some of the most precious. Sadly, my native Australians didn’t have the luxury as they battled ferocious fires which are still ongoing. I feel heartbroken for friends who have lost homes, for many of my childhood haunts decimated by the inferno and for the loss of our unique animals, the magnitude of which is beyond belief. The outpouring of generosity from all over the globe is outstanding and continues. The courage of those directly involved is awe-inspiring and the human spirit something to be revered.

I have found it difficult to start up again; to talk our talk and focus on the less important.

But, it is a new year, 2020 and there is much to be accomplished. Happy, happy New Year.

Let’s not talk resolutions.  

I prefer a “word” to follow and reflect upon. Words have been my muse and my model of encouragement for many years. I have worked with, ” yes” with “no” and there was a period where ‘brave” and “moderation” became my companions. Saying “yes’ and learning to respect “no” were big lessons for me and ones I try to continue on a daily basis. Small and quietly deadly is one way we could describe these. How hard it is to say “yes” when all we want is to hide away in private? Our female trait to be people-pleasers makes the whole idea of “no” an oxymoron.

How could I forget, “courage” and “commitment”? Last year I promised myself to follow my, “instinct“. Was I successful? I think so. Wavering only convinced me “instinct” is a guiding light. When I fought the inherent, I felt confused and profoundly knew I had lost my way. That’s progress. These words of mine are my life’s blueprint like a treasure map to an adventurer. Words don’t lose meaning or value when the calendar turns; they form the basis for an ever-expanding list.

What is my word for Twenty-Twenty?

Balance.

“Balance” came to me late last year or the lack of it.

Yoga, my new found friend, challenges me on so many levels but the greatest is balance. I don’t have the reserves. Yes, for a moment I can stand on one leg waving my arms like a faulty propeller, but that’s not balanced. The balance needs to be dependable for as long as I choose. I want my left and right to match in vigour, my hands to be mere accessories and I want my legs to feel powerful wherever they point. Strength, flexibility and now balance will make 2020, 2030 and 2040 my best decades.

As I flounder on one leg in my yoga classes I came to understand “balance” in all my walks of life needs recalibration. Work/life balance is often out of sync in my world. I can admit I adore my work and will consciously ignore what I shouldn’t. Friends and social occasions too often suffer; exercise was once a casualty but yoga changed all that. I believe striking balance in my physical, emotional and mental spheres will be a game-changer.

I’ll let you know.

By the way, it is so great to be back – I have missed you. xv