Happy 2024! I hope that whatever you need right now comes to you, whether it is health, love, success, connection, laughter, rest, peace, or joy. May this year be clement to you.

I hope this email finds you all in high spirits and ready to embark on a brand new year filled with endless possibilities. As we bid farewell to the challenges and triumphs of the past year, let's take a moment to reflect on our intentions for the year ahead.

We often find ourselves caught up in the excitement of setting New Year's resolutions, fueled by our desires and aspirations. However, this year, I'd like to invite you to shift your focus from what we want to what we truly need. Let's embrace a fresh perspective on setting intentions that align with our inner selves and lead us towards genuine fulfilment.

Instead of chasing fleeting desires, let's take a moment to reflect on what we genuinely need in our lives. This could be cultivating stronger relationships with loved ones, getting our house or paperwork organised, finding a new job, wasting less time on things that don't matter, prioritising self-care and well-being, or pursuing personal growth and learning. By focusing on our needs, we can create a solid foundation for lasting change and happiness.

Switch off all distractions and sit with the following questions:

1. What do I need? What area(s) of my life needs most change and why?
2. What is in my way? What is preventing me from getting what I need? Think of obstacles but also barriers in your mind.
3. What needs to go? Think in terms of distractions, bad habits, beliefs you hold about yourself, bitterness, resentment (all the "could have" and "should have") or lack of forgiveness. 
4. What will support me in creating change? Consider character traits as well as routines, actual things and support. 

Now, you might want to write this down. I made a mind map which allows me to add things as I think further about it. 

From this contemplation, you might actually uncover you Word of the Year. There might be one thing that would help you create change. It is a lot more effective to select your word as part of this reflection.

Finding your word is not a box you tick. You have to live it out throughout the year. What does your word in action look like? List three ways you are going to keep your word alive and visible.

Be sure to:

• Prioritise self-care: As women, we often put others' needs before our own. This year, let's make self-care a priority. Whether it's taking time for relaxation, pursuing a hobby, or nourishing our bodies with healthy choices, self-care is essential for our overall well-being.
• Seek personal growth: Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow. This could be through reading, attending workshops, or engaging in meaningful conversations. However, keep it focused on what you need.

Remember, setting intentions is not about perfection or achieving everything overnight. It's about embracing the journey and making conscious choices that align with our true selves. 

Wishing you a year filled with love, joy, and self-discovery!

http://valeriemarsh.com