Wednesday, December 29, 2010

find your joy.

I have only one new year's resolution for 2011, and that is to infuse joy into as much of my life as possible.  This means that instead of only allowing myself to feel satisfied once I have achieved whatever goal I have set out for myself I will work to find joy in the little steps along the way.
Without a doubt, this year will have highs that will lift us to new summits.  There is also a chance it will have lows that could bring us to our knees should we not be at our strongest mentally, emotionally and physically.  As someone who suffers from depression, I can already see the sinkholes forming, beckoning me.
But feeling sad doesn't solve anything.  I have too many people who need me and love me to indulge in the luxury of depression.  There is so much to be happy about, that is where I need to focus.  I feel in my heart good things are coming.  The universe is listening, all I have to do is be honest and unafraid about what I truly want to do with my life and not hide my light under a bush.
For the first time in my life I am making my mental health a priority and tackling it with everything I've got.  Eating healthy and exercising used to be a means to losing weight.  Now they are a focus to keep my blood sugar in check, endorphins pumping and demons of self-doubt at bay.  If I happen to go down a dress size in the process, that will be just fine.  But the priority is finding my joy.
My hope is that you will join me in this pursuit of happiness, whatever that looks like for you.  I plan to belly dance and photograph my way through 2011, pausing every now and again to rub the Buddha's head and spend time with the people I love most.  Throw in some travel, quilting, naps, and baking cookies with my kids and I think I've got a recipe for success.  May you find your joy in 2011.

3 comments:

  1. Sounds like a plan! Best wishes for the new year!

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  2. Love, love it! All the best to you for a joyful 2011! Julie Ellis

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  3. Kat -- I'm with you! I'm going to seek JOY in everything possible in 2011! Thanks for your honesty and candor, and above all, inspiration!

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