See Your Year Clearly

January Message of the Month

It’s the start of a new year, a common time to reflect on the past and set resolutions for the future. Instead of feeling overwhelmed about huge life changes, we offer a new idea - focus on clarity. 

Clarity doesn’t mean you have all the answers; nor does it mean you know exactly how the year will go. When we lack clarity, we often experience increased anxiety, have difficulty making decisions, feel scattered or stuck, second guess ourselves, and feel emotionally overwhelmed. 

Clarity provides a sense of grounding.

It gives direction without perfection.

It helps us understand what uplifts us versus what brings us down, identify patterns that affect our mood, and sort out what we truly desire in life. 

There are many methods of attaining clarity; reflection is one of them. It’s important to consider what was successful and unsuccessful about the past year along with what you learned through the difficult moments, and what surprised you. This self-evaluation should come from a nonjudgemental perspective. When we look at our life through a lens of self-compassion instead of focusing on what went wrong, we can move forward with acceptance and a vision for a more fulfilling and mentally healthy life. 

The second step may be to set clear intentions and goals for 2026. Be specific and break them down into smaller, more attainable steps. Write down “why” these goals are important to you. 

Step three is to create an environment that supports those goals. Declutter your space; research self-care activities, find a special journal, create a meditative corner, and limit screen time as a distraction. Establish routines to keep yourself consistent and accountable. 

The fourth step is crucial: connect and seek support. Our society is fighting a loneliness epidemic. Be a person who talks to strangers; creates conversation around mental health; tells your own story of overcoming challenges to make others not feel so alone. Be a person who finds the positive and spreads that positivity to others. 

Example: 

• Reflection: I did not move much in 2025 and want to change that

• Goal: Walk more steps; get outside more

• Why: To be more healthy and clear my mind

• Environment: Invest in a good pair of walking shoes, a bag to bring them to work, and a calendar to keep track and schedule. 

• Strategies to be consistent: Set a reminder for 2 days a week at noon.

• Connect: ask a friend at work to join me. Call a friend during the walk.