Making new year’s resolutions doesn’t seem to be in the news or talked about as much as it was years ago. I recently heard some quips about the futility, “It’s the first week of January and your big resolution is already broken.” and “Have you noticed that you have to wait in line to get on your favorite treadmill in your gym? Just wait a week and most people will have cleared out.” Losing weight and eating better are two popular goals that many people think about this time of year. I’ve also heard friends say that this year they want to be kinder, want to think more of other people first, want to volunteer in the local food pantry, more value-driven desires, desires to be a better person.
All intentions to do better have value, not only for ourselves, but also for all those who lives we intersect with and touch. What turns our desire into action? Making a plan, having a specific organization to work with, getting a family member or friend to join us in our new venture. And most involved getting out of the house, changing a pattern or habit that is ingrained in our daily lives.
Changing habits can be challenging, because our habits become comfortable, familiar, easy, just what we do without really thinking about it. Self-help books abound on how to develop new habits, how to become our best selves.
What often is not said — we may need to let go of something we are currently doing or thinking to do a new thing. Letting go of something about ourselves that is comfortable. Letting go of a pattern or person that drags us down. Letting go of saying ‘yes’ to all the requests people ask of us.
One of my Tai Chi teachers in San Diego said Tai Chi is not about trying harder. It’s about allowing and letting go. Profound. Continues to remind me about letting go. Each day. I think it’s an excellent lesson for all of us. For our new resolutions, our desires to be healthier, we try harder. Instead, we need to learn how to let go and be in the moment. Clear our heads. Be kind to our bodies. Move our energy in positive ways. Tai Chi helps us learn how to do that.
What will you do to let go, so you can start to fulfill your goal of living a healthier life?