New thoughts for the new year

A new year has arrived—365 fresh days and a renewed sense of energy to carry us forward.
How do you plan to make the most of it?

Have you consciously closed the chapter on the last year? Or are you carrying it with you—unfinished goals, aspirations, wins, setbacks, conflicts, love, friendships, joy, sorrow, and everything in between?

Do we really need to take it all along?

Perhaps it’s wiser to carry only what truly matters—the experiences that shaped us, the lessons that strengthened us, and the moments that brought us joy. Letting go is not easy, but it is worth trying.

Most of us entered 2022 with expectations. Some were fulfilled. Some weren’t. Before rushing ahead, it helps to pause—to reflect on what went well, the lessons we want to carry forward, and the memories worth cherishing. And just as importantly, to gently release what no longer serves us.

Yet, we are conditioned to focus more on what we missed than on what we achieved.

As children, we were taught to look at where we lost marks rather than where we did well. At work, performance appraisals often spotlight gaps, unfinished tasks, and areas for improvement more than effort or progress.

The same pattern shows up in the world around us. News headlines are dominated by problems—issues in society, politics, communities, corporations, and individuals. Rarely do we pause to highlight what’s working, who is doing good work, or what is improving.

Over time, this becomes our default mode. We talk about problems with friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues. Complaints flow more easily than appreciation.

But what if we chose differently? What if we built a habit of noticing and talking about what we are grateful for?
What if we shifted our attention to the good happening around us—quietly, consistently, without headlines?

Isn’t it possible to choose conversations and content that uplift and inspire, rather than drain and overwhelm us?

I believe it is worth trying.

So here’s a gentle question as the year unfolds:
Would you consider adding this to your New Year’s intentions—making gratitude and positivity a conscious part of your daily conversations?

—Anitha KC