New Year. New You.
Words by Noopur Pal
The year is almost over. And most of us (still) find ourselves missing the finer things in life: A fine career, but falling short of work-life balance; a compassionate heart, but no romantic relationship (at the moment!); a bucket list of places to see and things to eat, but no time to spare. And on days like today, when you sit back and think of the months gone by, you realize that more than any of that, you’re missing the mark somewhere on who you are or who you would like to be.
After speaking with Sirf Coffee clients, family and friends, we put together a sensible and easy go-to list of pick-me-ups that will hopefully lend you perspective for the New Year. Here’s to a happier, healthier and fulfilling 2018.
De-clutter
It could be your workstation, closet, Facebook friend list or mental state of mind – start taking out the trash. Here’s an easy rule of thumb: if you haven’t used something or spoken to a person in over six months, chances are that they amount to floating algae in your life. They’re there, but not really there. Fill up a box of things you don’t use / need anymore (in decent condition, of course!) and drop them off at an orphanage, maybe? You’ll end up feeling lighter, and also make room for shiny, new things in life. The same goes for people.
Make Time For A (New) Hobby / Skill / Language
You know what they say? You don’t realize how boring your life is until someone asks you what you do for fun. Netflix & chill (we only speak of the PG version) is great as an occasional weekend. Sign up for an photography class. See what’s happening at your local art gallery. Learn a skill that challenges you. All it takes is time and proactive effort. It’ll give you something more to look forward to at the end of a crazy week at work, and make some (like-minded) friends.
Spend Time By Yourself, For Yourself
It is okay to not be surrounded by people all the time! Take some time off from aimless banter, professional debates, and gossiping family members. In short, go away on a well-deserved vacation. Use the time to meditate, read and indulge in activities that make you tick. Care for yourself and partake in experiences that make you look at your phone a little less. Eat that slice of chocolate cake when you crave it the most. Run the next day and burn off the calories (and guilt). Life is too short to wait for all your ducks to fall in a row.
Let Go Of Control
Be honest enough to admit that you aren’t a know-it-all. One of the scariest (and greatest) things about seeing the world through an open mind is that you’re actually vulnerable in it. Be it a new work role, budding relationship or a geographical move to a new city – this change can be both terrifying and exhilarating. Don’t be confined by your own beliefs, or those of others. Everything you experience collectively ‘adds up’ an underlying sense of authenticity, shaping your character.
Be Your Own Hero
Build yourself a life that doesn’t just look good, but feels good too. Give yourself the attention, care and love that you give away so easily to others. Be your own best friend, your own worst critic and chief motivator. Experience the happiness and contentment within yourself, to attract others who are in a similar space. Meeting your own needs is paramount, before meeting someone else’s. It is difficult to look into the dark crevices inside yourself and truly own the way you feel, the way you behave, and see what is blocking your own thriving.
So come on, pick yourself up, and get the ball rolling. If meeting like-minded, interesting people in your city is on your list, you know where to find us.
