New Year New You????

 know. I know. We are already two and a half months into the new year, so why am I writing about the new year?  Simple.  This isn't about the new year.  This is about you.

"New year, new you" is a phrase thrown around for beginning of the year marketing, from weight loss to health clubs, spas and salons.  Heck, even I have used it in my own practice.  This year I decided to reflect on this topic of new year new you.  The year is new, but why do you have to be?  What can't you just be you, a complete and honest version of you?

As I write this out in my journal, I look down to see this quote.  It reads, "Yes, in all my research, the greatest leaders looked inward and were able to tell a good story with authenticity and passion." -Deepak Chopra

Can you tell your story with authenticity and passion?  Do you struggle with this? I know I do.  How many of my flaws am I willing to show? Am I ready to put myself out there? Am I comfortable with who I am? My answer is yes, I do struggle with telling my story.  I don't know how many of my flaws I am ready to show the world, but this alone is one of them. I am not ready to put myself out there, but I'm going to.  I'm not completely comfortable with who I am, but I am working on it.  I will always work on it. You don't need to live in a world of perfect snapshots posted to social media to show you have your shit together.  None of us do. We all have flaws. We all make mistakes. We are all human.

Think about it.  The people who love you, love YOU.  They love you for who you are, flaws and all.  They love your quirks, your scars, your passion, your heart.  So why not be you, maybe a better you?  Strive to be kind, empathetic, compassionate.  Do something out of the goodness of your heart, and don't seek praise from others for it.  Praise yourself.  Praise yourself for working towards your dreams and goals.

Find your passion.  Find what drives you.  Find what fulfills you.

On this Valentine's Day, love YOU.  Every day LOVE YOU.