End of the Year Reflections:
Did You Get the Most Out of 2015?
I can’t fully describe how much I enjoy the ending of a year and looking forward to the beginning of a new one. Not because I have any regrets and I’m ready to wipe the slate clean in the New Year, but rather the upcoming December 31st celebration causes me to reflect on all I have witnessed in the past year. I can honestly say that 2015 is going in my book as one of the greatest years I have experienced thus far. Some times we get so wrapped up in our jobs and our everyday life that we forget to stop and pat ourselves on the back for overcoming the daily and yearly obstacles we experience. No matter how small or how large the accomplishments of 2015 were, don’t forget to reflect on it and congratulate yourself. Recognizing your own accomplishments in life is one of the many positive steps you must take in order to eventually achieve complete self-actualization and happiness.
I made a list of my own perceived accomplishments and positive memories from 2015 so I can go back and remind myself of the highlights of the year:
-Visited the southernmost part of the U.S.
-Went back to school and completed my first college degree
-Witnessed my father survive a heart attack
-Took an international vacation for the first time
-#1 salesman at my job
-Swam with Dolphins
-Snorkeled in the U.S.’ only living coral reef
-Snorkeled with sea turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish
-Went paddle boarding
-Saw one of the New 7 Wonders of the World
-Zip lined through the Mayan Jungle
-Camped on the beach
-Survived riding in a Mexican Taxi
-Witnessed friends getting engaged
-Got an apartment with my girlfriend for the first time
-Reached the healthiest and best physical condition of my life
-Co-founded a blog and website
“Celebrate what you want to see more of” – Tom Peters
A lot of people will be making New Years resolutions in a couple of days, but instead of only making resolutions, make your own quarterly goals for 2016. I’ve set a few realistic goals for myself that I believe I can accomplish every few months throughout the year. They range from spending more time with my family, to learning to play the guitar, and of course, finding more time to travel. The great thing about starting a new year, is that it really does mean that you can use it as an excuse to become a new and/or better you. Nothing is holding you back in 2016 except for yourself. So lets pat ourselves on the back for successfully making it through 2015 and let’s get ready to make the best of 2016. CHEERS!
