On growth and new beginnings

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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 at Zak’s smile that reminds me it is all worth it, and his beautiful way of exploring life - literally enjoying the smallest things, like getting incredibly excited for a sip of water. 

Then, there is the work I do with my clients. 
The beautiful moments of connection I find myself having in sessions; those subtle moments of change that bring us closer not simply as therapist and client, but as two humans transforming and influencing each other’s lives. 
The moments where a smile breaks despair, a look breaks silence, and the willingness to show up breaks the uncertainty of life.

This reflection grounded me even more in what I do, as I remind myself that what life truly means to me is all about growth and new beginnings.

So let this be the chapter of my 31st birthday reflection - a reminder of exactly what I admire in being a mom and a therapist.


Yours truly,

Dana Berri

Kindness is not just a virtue, it's a way of life. 

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