As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, it is a moment filled with hope and anticipation. The transition from one year to the next is a time when we leave the past behind and step into the unfamiliar. It's a moment of reflection, listening to our desires, and embracing new possibilities.

Leaving One Year Behind: A Time for Reflection

As the year comes to an end, it's only natural to take a moment to self-reflect. At this time, we look back on what we've accomplished and the challenges we've faced. It's a chance to review the experiences we've had and consider the opportunities we seized, as well as those we bypassed.

Reflecting on the past year can be a powerful way to grow as individuals.  We gain a better understanding of ourselves and observe what is important to us. It's also an opportunity to appreciate the lessons we've learned along the way and to let go of any burdens that might be holding us back. So, as we approach the new year, let's take a moment to look back on our journey and use it as a steppingstone for personal growth and positive change.

Listening to Our Desires and Connecting to Divine Will

The transition from one year to the next often involves a desire for personal growth and change. When a strong desire fuels our motivation, it propels us into action. When we're genuinely inspired to make a change that aligns with our higher personal growth, the process feels smoother, and events seamlessly fall into place.

Conversely, when we force change upon ourselves through sheer willpower and determination, resistance often emerges over time. Consider the common scenario of New Year's resolutions, such as committing to a new fitness regimen or diet plan. Initially, motivation and determination drive us to consistently follow through. However, when motivation starts to wane, we may resort to hiring a fitness trainer or other external motivators to keep us going. Yet, when the effort invested doesn't meet our expectations, feelings of frustration and defeat set in, ultimately leading to abandoning the goal.

Sheer determination only gets you so far because you are acting in a manner of ‘Forced Willpower’.

I faced my own battle of ‘forced willpower’ while writing this article. For the first time, I found myself struggling with writer's block as I attempted to craft this month's piece. Frustration mounted as I forced myself to sit down and write, only to find that the words remained elusive. I'd often step away from my desk to engage in other activities, further procrastinating the writing process.

I finally wrote an article, but found myself scrapping it because it didn't resonate with me. Even the second article that I wrote proved equally uninspiring, and I began to feel a growing sense of frustration and anxiety. With an impending deadline adding to the pressure, writer's block had a tight grip on my creative process.

One morning I woke up at 4:00am with the urgency of the impending deadline bearing down on me. In that moment, I chose to sit quietly and meditate. Through this introspection, I focused on releasing the negative emotions that had accumulated in my body. Gradually, a sense of calm and neutrality overcame me.

It was during this tranquil interlude when connecting to my ‘Divine Will’ that I posed a pivotal question to myself: 'What could I convey in my article that might inspire others in a similar predicament?' Almost immediately, words and ideas began to flow like a river of inspiration. I reached for my phone and began to dictate these inspirational thoughts, and within less than 50 minutes, I had all the vital concepts to include in this article. My inspiration returned, and my writer's block faded away. I changed it from a hard and grueling process to one of ease.  See the difference between ‘Forced Willpower’ and ‘Divine Will’? Divine Will flows and Forced Willpower resists.

Connecting to your ‘Divine Will’ allows you to flow with creative energy.

When you release the grip of 'Forced Willpower' and embrace your 'Divine Will’, you align yourself with your higher self. As a result, the barriers that hinder your progress gradually dissipate and the hope of an easier way unfolds. Your energy changes to renewed hope and anticipation. With these insights, you are poised to embrace tremendous opportunities for the year ahead.

Embracing New Possibilities

Transitioning into a new year is like opening a door to a world of new exploration. It's a time when we can choose to leave behind what no longer serves us and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Hopefulness is about having faith in the future and being receptive to change. The unknown can be intimidating, but it's also where the most significant growth and transformation often occur. By embracing new possibilities, we approach the future with optimism and enthusiasm.

By connecting with your 'Divine Will,' you can release fears about the future, navigate world events, enhance your relationships, and act on your aspirations for the New Year. Hope serves as the guiding light, leading you through uncertain times and challenges, instilling a belief that you can surmount obstacles and achieve your dreams. As the old year fades away, extend a warm welcome to the new one, armed with hope and determination, ready to embark on your next amazing journey that awaits you.

Note: This article was published in the Villager Spotlight Magazine (December 2023 edition)