Kathryn J. Raths, LLC Photo (Me)
Before we can move forward and make new paths for healthier futures, it is always important to look back, not to perpetuate a feeling of being stuck but to realize or raise awareness of where we came from.
2015 was big for me. I finished my Master's Degree and became a Limited License Professional Counselor in the state of Michigan, landed a job as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, got married, and purchased a small vacation home in the upper peninsula of Michigan where my youngest son will be living while he is finishing his degree at Michigan Technological University. It is the first year in many where I feel my hard work has paid off and feels pretty great.
In writing my post tonight, I thought about my work as a therapist and what I believe is fundamental to the success of changing habits; while it is tough, an integrated self needs to be at the forefront.
We have to show up aligned in mind (intellect), body (physical), and spirit (emotional). Many times when we fail, we only show up in one of these areas, which can cause misalignment and eventually lead to guilt or shame; we end up confused. What I mean by mind, body, and spirit is we must be fully committed to what we are trying to change. We need to lean on our faith (fuel hope instead of punitiveness), use our intellect to recognize and work through triggers, and increase our self-care to be able to rely physically on our bodies to persevere. If we want to make the change but are not ready to put forth the work, the comfort of the old routine or craving/impulse will quickly override any desire for change.
It helps if we rally support by talking to others about it and/or working with a partner or friend who is reaching for a goal too.
My 2016 resolutions are:
To become more physically fit/toned through exercise and healthier eating. To become more spiritually connected through mindfulness and more intellectually fit by increasing my study habits. I want to pass the state exam, have a full-time client base, and intertwine mindfulness into my everyday routine.
What are your resolutions? Tell me, and we'll work toward each of ours together!
Good luck and Godspeed!
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