'It's that time of year when everyone says 'Next Year I'll ...'

With the New Year like a mouse, peering round an open door, just waiting for the cat to fall asleep so he can get his prized food, I wonder what your thoughts are 2011/2012? 

Has the year been full of every emotion possible?  Do you find yourself saying '2012 will be the best yet'?
If we had not experienced all these emotions: sadness, joy, loneliness, excitement, what would the year have been filled with?
Do we not learn from every situation we encounter?
So what have I learned in 2011 that will make me a stronger indivdual?

I've learnt to:

Dream - I had always dreamt that I would run my own business and 2011 has seen that first step up that metaphorical ladder.  It's become a reality as I reduced my hours with my regular job to concentrate on building up my own business.  Madness, some may say in this current climate.  I know that with hard work I can achieve anything I want to. I just need to be honest to myself, and absorb all that comes my way.

Opportunity - We make opportunities by learning to say 'why not'.  At the start of this year I would never have dreamed that I would be featured in a magazine and then offered the chance to write for that magazine on a regular basis. I get to write about something I am passionate about 'Health and its psychological and physiological effects'. Who'd have thought the person who left school not understanding the meaning of a full stop would be doing this.

Inspiration - I have been inspired by many people throughout this year.  My family of course are my heart and soul.  My parents, sister and close family never judging, always supoorting and protecting me.  My four legged friends who listen unconditionally, who know when to comfort, and guarantee to make me smile, even on the gloomiest of days.
My friends whether virtual (e.g. facebook) or those all around me, all inspiring me with their stories, strengths and experiences. Without each and every one, I would not have learnt a valuable lesson. You're wondering if I mean you personally?  Yes I do! (and if you wonder how, just ask me).

Time - Always having time to listen, always having time to make a difference to someone.  Even if it's only to have a 5 minute chat with them, or something as simple as a smile or kind word to a stranger that passes you or who can't reach that tin on the shelf in a supermarket.

It may feel like a small gesture to you but to them , it lets them know someone is thinking of them.
How many times have you thought 'I wish I'd'...?, I challenge you from this moment forward to be able to say 'I'm glad I did....'

So with this D.O.  I.T.  attitude I don't resolve to make 2012 the best year ever. I resolve to thrive on the challenges that are set by and for me. I resolve to say 'Why not!' at every opportunity. I resolve that if I can make life that little bit better by just being there, then I will.

But most of all I resolve to be ME and to let every new experience enhance who I already am.

Happy New Year to you, your friends and family.

Becky x