Finding Hope: Embracing the Journey to 2024
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Reflecting on the Past Year
As the countdown to the new year begins, many people start to reflect on their aspirations, accomplishments, and how to celebrate the upcoming year.
For some, like myself, 2023 has presented numerous challenges, making the idea of entering a new year feel less exciting. It’s easy to focus on the disappointments, feeling overwhelmed by various struggles—financial, physical, mental, and emotional.
While everyone around you is buzzing with plans and resolutions for 2024, you might feel indifferent, as if sadness has enveloped you. But remember, you’re not alone in feeling this way. Let me share how I’m changing my perspective and preparing for the year ahead.
The Complexity of Life
Have you ever wondered how others navigate their lives? Each of us holds different experiences, loves, dislikes, and unique outlooks on life.
We all face ups and downs; it’s part of what makes life meaningful. These moments—joy, sorrow, pain, comfort—are experiences we must embrace. I’ve learned to appreciate both the good and the bad days because they give context to one another. The tough times help me cherish the joyful moments more deeply, while the happier days illuminate the purpose behind the struggles.
Yet, it can be challenging to maintain this viewpoint when difficult days seem to pile up, leaving you questioning what you’re doing wrong. You may feel exhausted from the cycle of waking up and confronting the same issues day after day.
Embracing Emotions
I want to acknowledge that I’m currently experiencing these feelings. This morning, I chose to confront each emotion that arises from my challenging days and to persevere. Why? Because I want to prepare for the better days ahead.
I’ve taken the time to jot down my sources of distress, alongside potential solutions for each one. This helps me identify what I can control and what I cannot. I believe it’s essential to release the things beyond my control, as they only add to my burdens. Accepting that certain events have occurred—and that we cannot change them—allows me to focus on living my life without dwelling on uncontrollable factors.
No magic will erase your struggles; it’s crucial to take proactive steps to navigate through the persistent gloomy days.
Finding Strength
As some might say, “It’s just a phase.” While it’s true that these feelings are temporary, they can also be emotionally and mentally draining. We must find the strength to acknowledge, reflect on, and weigh our choices between resolution or surrender.
Instead of thinking, "I can’t believe this is happening to me," try shifting to "This has happened; how will I let it affect my life?"
My first piece of advice for those tough days is to express your feelings. Write it down, cry, talk it out, or yell if you need to—just let the pain flow. Then, accept what has transpired; nobody leads a perfect life. Attempt to address the problem, and if it’s beyond your control, let it go. Life continues, regardless of how much we worry.
As we approach 2024, I hope you find the strength to embrace this journey. Remember, it’s a process; don’t rush it. It’s perfectly fine to feel the new year’s energy in February—give yourself grace.
Explore the emotions of feeling unprepared for a new beginning in "Not Ready" by Naomi Raine.
MYLE's "Not Ready" captures the sentiments of uncertainty and hope as we transition into a new year.