Five Promises to Yourself for 2011

By Julie Hall for the NABBW

Happy New Year! These days, it appears increasingly difficult to stay on the level emotionally. So much comes at us that it\’s depressing to just turn on the TV. To combat this heaviness that many feel, I have five suggestions to make us feel more buoyant this year. Please share them with your family and friends, since we all need to support one another during these challenging times.

1. Let It Go! Let go of anything that weighs you down. Surplus material possessions and stuff that no longer has meaning, people and relationships that are toxic, clean out that closet and give to those in need, etc. Just let go! You will immediately feel lighter, and more open space will provide an uplift to your spirit.
2. If something you tried last year didn\’t work out, keep trying different ways until it does work. As the old saying goes, “there is more than one way to skin a cat.” Try again in different ways; ask close friends or colleagues what they would do. Valued opinions and objective third parties may very well be the sounding board you need and may just provide you with the brilliant idea that works.
3. Broaden your horizons. No more excuses! Take that pottery class, dance class, go to that place you\’ve always wanted to see, train for a marathon, volunteer, lose weight, etc. Just do it! Spend some time on YOU.
4. Practice appreciation. Open your eyes and look for the simple pleasures in your life. Put forth a little effort to “see” the good in the world. Sometimes you need to go for a walk and admire the birds, a playful puppy, your neighbor\’s garden, a child enjoying his play, or just look at the sky and take some deep breaths. A survey of centenarians (those over 100 years old) shows they attribute their longevity to simple pleasures like walking barefoot, watering their garden, swimming, etc.
5. Train your brain to think positively. Yes, there is much wrong with the world today, but there is still much good in it. Go forth, do good things, be a good person, and try to make a difference for others.  Say “Thank you” often and smile at others.  The rewards are far greater than you know! It comes back to you ten-fold, and it will give you a strong sense of purpose in the new year.

copyright 2010, The Estate Lady®

Julie Hall, known as The Estate Lady, is a professional estate liquidator and certified personal property appraiser. With more than nineteen years experience, she has assisted thousands of individuals in the daunting and often painful process of managing their deceased parents\’ affairs.  She is a best-selling author and speaker to Boomers and their parents.

Web address: http://www.theestatelady.com

Email address: Julie@theestatelady.com

Julie Hall