On growth and new beginnings
Yesterday was my birthday and I usually like to take this day to reflect. It is basically my ‘new year’s resolution’. What has been different for me is that instead of setting goals and plans for the upcoming year, I intentionally reflect on what matters to me, which is not an easy task for someone who thrives on achieving and accomplishing tasks. I began this practice years ago, especially when I entered the ACT era of my expertise as a psychologist. It changed everything - not only in my therapeutic approach, but also in the lens through which I observe my own thoughts and actions. What helps me find answers is asking myself what moments made me feel more connected to myself - moments that made me feel deeply happy, or even deeply sad. These ‘sweet and sour’ moments speak the most to us and help us understand what matters to our souls, more than the brief satisfaction of ticking a to-do list. I found myself going back to two main domains: my family and my work. Looking a...