Wendel Abel
WE HAVE started a new year. By now, all of us would have committed to realising meaningful change in our lives. Let us make this year the year of possibilities. Let us make this year the year we unlock our potentials. This year must be the year to realise our dreams.
1. Let us believe that things can change and will change.
"Things do not change; we change".
(Henry David Thoreau)
We are in a world that is constantly changing. People are changing around us. Organisations are changing and the world is constantly changing. Let us, therefore, commit ourselves to change and transformation this year. May we realise changes in our personal lives, in our relationships, in our homes and in our careers. As we bring about these changes in our personal lives, they will also be transmitted into our communities and also effect real changes into the entire island of Jamaica, and by extension our world.
2. Let us change our thinking.
For all of us the personal transformation and change will only take place when we start to change our thinking. We should confront all negative thoughts this year and replace them with positive thinking and positive affirmations. Let us all commit ourselves to positive thinking this year.
"We are what we think.
All that we are arises
With our thoughts.
With our thoughts,
We make our world."
(The Buddha)
3. Let us make concrete plans this year.
Take some time out to reflect on your aspirations and resolutions for the new year. Make plans that are going to be necessary for your life goals. If possible, write them out and discuss them with a friend. Whatever your intentions, realise that the possibilities in this life are endless. Do not leave things to chance. Take time out and make plans.
4. Make investments in your personal lives.
In order to facilitate the changes in our lives, we often have to make personal investments. These personal investments include reading various self-help books and motivational material. It may also include consulting lifestyle experts, personal coach and attending motivational workshops. I encourage us all this year to place more attention on the positive things and less on the negatives.
"Whatsoever things are of good report, think on these things".
5. Stop all self-defeating emotions,
attitudes and behaviour.
Fear, anger, dishonesty, deception, procrastination, denial are some of the common emotions, attitudes and behaviours that limit us and stifle our growth and development. Pause and make a list of some of those negative attitudes, emotions and behaviour that may be keeping you back. Sometimes, it is very difficult for us to identify them. I suggest that you call or ask a friend or someone close to you to help you. Listen to them and do not counter or challenge them. Reflect on whatever suggestions they may make. This may be a very painful process but, I strongly urge that you proceed with this exercise as, by so doing, you may bring about meaningful growth and success.
6. Believe in yourself.
"They conquer who believe they can, He has not learned the lessons of life who does not each day surmount a fear." (Emerson).
This year remind yourself and nurture the belief that you have the ability to change and realise your dreams. Have faith in your abilities. Nurture the confidence in yourself and constantly remind yourself that your life can change, your life must change and your life will change for the better this year.
Let us continue the journey into 2006 and make it a successful and happy one.
One love!
Dr. Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and senior lecturer, University of the West Indies; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
