Hello from Dr.Ben!

As we move towards the Winter and welcome in the new year, let’s remember 2019. No matter how the year has been, find a way to remember the whole picture, the silver lining and the cloud.

Gratitude

Gratitude research has shown that we are wired to notice the bad in life five times more frequently than the good. It has also proven the value of focusing on the positive things in life so that we can feel better.

So, in this case, our default thinking will pull us down. That is why it is vital to handle challenges and practice noticing the good that happens.

What was the Theme for 2019?

Was 2019 a year of wonder, a year of growth through trial, a year of overcoming obstacles, a year of joy?

Be real with your experience and find a way to share it with yourself that helps you remember the silver lining a bit more than the cloud.

The questions in the next section will help to frame this.

Winter Idea: Clear Vision 2020

2020 is just around the corner, and it is an excellent time to set yourself up for a great year.

Here are a few journal prompts to help you complete 2019 and move into 2020.

• If you had a theme for 2019, What was it?
  • What did this year’s theme turn out to be?
• What were some of your biggest wins?
• What were some of your biggest challenges?
  • What did you learn from them?
• What projects were completed?
  • Which projects are not yet completed?
• What have been the years’ favorite books or movies?
• Who have been your favorite heroes or heroines this year?
• What are you most proud of?
• What is your biggest regret?
  • What will you do differently next time?
• Anything you’re ready to let go of as you move into 2020?
• Have any practices really worked for you?

Looking forward to 2020

• What did you learn in 2019 that you would like to implement in 2020?
• Then if you like to set themes or goals, set a few for 2020.

For many themes can be as powerful or more than goals.

The Power of Writing or Vividly Describing Goals

For either goals or themes, research tells us that we should review them often for them to have the best effect.

If you write goals down they are 42% more likely to happen. If you write or describe them vividly, in studies they are 1.2 to 1.4 times more likely to happen.

So, even if it sounds a little 3rd grade, writing or vividly describing your goals has power.

I like that!

To a Happy and Fulfilling 2020 for All!

Ben