Start, Stop and Continue.

We've all heard of SMART goals, but some times when the New Year is upon us, the goals we want to achieve are not necessarily something we want as an extra 'thing' in our lives. Instead, if we reflect on our past year, we can identify what we have achieved and which areas we would like to improve on.

Mapping your course for the next year of life is similar to the role of an incident commander during a crisis. Imagine being tasked with managing an emergency situation; your effectiveness in directing resources and making crucial decisions hinges on having a clear understanding of the current situation. In the same way, setting goals for the upcoming year requires a comprehensive assessment of your present circumstances. Just as an incident commander can't deploy resources strategically without knowing the current state of affairs, you can't navigate your life's journey effectively without first understanding your starting point.

So lets reflect on 2023, and discover the highlights.

If your memory is anything like mine you may struggle to recall most of your highlights. This is where your phone and calendar come in handy; scroll back through your photos and events, jot down all the good bits that stand out for you month by month. On memory alone I recalled four highlights, most of which were trips away with the family. But delving deeper, I really like the fact I took enjoyment of our simple walks as a family with our pet dog along the coastal path. Sunsets on camping trips, sunrises on my commute to work and sea swimming with friends.

The next part can be uncomfortable depending on your struggles this past year. The questions you can ask yourself here are what were the things that held you back this year? What were your low points? Splitting them in to categories will help really dissect and make clearer how you can improve on yourself in 2024. I recommend the following categories:

• Fun and Happiness
• Health and Wellness
• Relationships (family, friends)
• Career and Money
• Purpose and Spiritual

Let me share some personal examples; as much as I've had really good times with my family this year going camping for the first time, relationships have at many times been a struggle due to various factors but the main one being that my boyfriend and I work opposite shifts in order to manage with childcare. This is something I'd like to stop or at least look at improving as I feel we are a tag team when it comes to parenting and we rarely spend quality time together.

I'd like to start home improvements in 2024. We moved in to our new home almost two years ago, there is a lot of work I'd like to get done so I'm going to make a plan of action, set a budget and get the ball rolling.

Another highlight that I wish to continue being there for the children's important school events such as their sports day and Christmas plays. I also want to continue listening to podcasts and reading as much as I possibly can to improve myself as a mother, firefighter and person in general.

So that is the Start, Stop and Continue model in a nutshell. This activity is great done with loved ones or a support network who you trust - sometimes they can see things you can't!

Start:

1. Discovering New Passions:

Highlight pictures that bring you joy and fulfillment. What activities or experiences sparked genuine happiness? Connect these moments to potential new passions or interests. Discuss how you plan to incorporate these newfound sources of joy into your life in the coming year.

2. Setting Positive Goals:

Outline concrete and positive goals inspired by the uplifting moments from the past year. Whether it's committing to a healthier lifestyle, pursuing a creative endeavor, or enhancing personal relationships, be specific about your aspirations. Explain how these goals align with the positive experiences that brought you happiness.

Stop:

1. Identify Habits or Behaviors to Stop:

Share the process of scrolling through your photo gallery. Did you notice recurring themes or activities that brought you discomfort or dissatisfaction? It could be excessive screen time, unhealthy eating habits, or procrastination. Be specific about the behaviors you want to eliminate.

2. Learn from Mistakes:

Dive into specific pictures that captured challenging moments. Discuss the lessons learned from these experiences. How have these mistakes shaped your perspective? Emphasise the importance of acknowledging and learning from failures as part of personal growth.

Continue:

1. Celebrate Achievements:

Showcase pictures that represent accomplishments, whether big or small. Discuss how these achievements made you feel and their significance in your personal journey. Highlight the importance of acknowledging and celebrating success to build motivation and confidence.

2. Nurturing Relationships:

Share heartwarming pictures that capture moments with loved ones. Reflect on the impact of these relationships on your overall well-being. Discuss specific actions you plan to take to continue nurturing and strengthening these connections, emphasising the importance of meaningful relationships in your life.

Closing Thoughts:

As we approach the new year, let's think about our own journeys. Take a moment to look back at the past year—think about the good times, the tough times, and what made you feel something deep inside.

I want to hear your stories. We're all in this together, trying to grow and do better. Your experiences matter, and so do your goals.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, 'What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.' Let's remember that as we go into the next year.

Share your thoughts and resolutions. Let's create a community where we support and encourage each other. Together, we can make the upcoming year meaningful.

As we step into the new year, focus not just on where you're going but also on the journey itself. Here's to a year full of self-discovery, learning, and the joy of growing together. Cheers to the adventure that's waiting for us all!