A New Year Dawns

During the recent period between Christmas and New Year, I’ve been thinking about liminal spaces, those areas of transition and flux.

I’ve always enjoyed this time because it feels like a resting place between the year I will leave behind and the anticipation of the one to come. I give myself permission to make few plans and to expect little of myself during this week. It is a unique and liberating space to just ‘be,’ and I look forward to it every year.

Part of the appeal for the week lies in taking stock of the year that has been, revelling again in the joys, fearlessly facing any disappointments, and extracting the lessons.

I do this gently though, without fanfare but with a sincere desire to witness any growth. Part of the satisfaction of completing a year is to know that I am not the same person that I was twelve months ago.

The benefit of this period is that time keeps moving me forward, preventing me from staying in this contemplative state too long. Liminal spaces are only for resting, not for nesting. Stay in them too long and they become holding cells, keeping us incarcerated until a change in circumstances sets us free.

The secret is to remain intentional in flourishing forward.

Where do you find yourself during this transitional week? Are you in a restful space or has life recently thrown you a curveball that has upended the way you will ride out of 2023?

However it is for you, lean into the anticipation of new beginnings.

And if you would like some guidance in the form of mentoring to start the year well, let’s have a short obligation-free chat. You can book a time here.

I leave you with these beautiful, profound words from the poet and philosopher John O’Donahue:

“…Though your destination is not yet clear

You can trust the promise of this opening;

Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning

That is at one with your life’s desire.

Awaken your spirit to adventure;

Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;

Soon you will be home in a new rhythm

For your soul senses the world that awaits you.”

Happy New Year to you and your loved ones. May 2024 be your best year yet.