2024: A Year for Me

New Year 2024- I feel the concept of "New Year" is like a fresh start to one-self. A fresh chapter to your life's story. It is about moving on from all the failures, hardships and anxiety which holds one back. It is like starting a new era of life with all the dedication, hope and courage. As we embark on a journey, this new year, I want this year to be a year about me, about self-improvement, self-love and hard work.

This year, the first and foremost thing which I have decided to work on is my mental health. I often find myself being affected by what people say. Many a times, I even take a simple joke to heart. If I take anything upon myself, I tend to overthink it. I realise my mind is not at ease. I start doubting myself and ask myself "Where did I go wrong?" I tend to self-doubt my past actions. Later I realise all the self-doubt was unnecessary as it was just meant to be a JOKE. This year, I have promised myself to not overthink every minute statement and instead sort it out with the person who made that statement then and there without wasting time on overthinking.

I may sound selfish by the next statement but it is important for me- I will prioritize myself over others. I am often there for everyone and everything but myself. Although I am a very strong headed individual, 90% of the times but for the remaining 10% I am sometimes persuaded by what the person in front is saying or doing. I have come to the realisation that 'What is good for me is only known to me'. I have decided to take a step back and think in such situations without just letting myself being persuaded. A minute's pause can often lead to better decisions!

This year I have decided to put in all the hard work and be passionate about every tiny thing I do. Instead of putting in the usual 100%, I have planned on putting in an extra amount of effort. I say it from a personal experience and some of you might relate to it as well that many a times we dream about clearing some reputed examinations or even land a certain job but don't really put in that extra effort which would help us do so. From the beginning of this year, let us take it upon ourselves to be a little less lazy and not postpone some remaining part of your task to the next day. Let us set up a realistic schedule for each day and getting everything done accordingly, without building pressure on oneself.

On this new year, put in your best, put in everything you have in yourself for things you love and would want to pursue in future but remember to take a break every now and then to relax, to breathe, to be mindful about things around you and be there for your parents. Remember they have lived a longer life and have better experience even if they may not be fluent in using all the upcoming gadgets. They have better knowledge at life in general. Spend time with them even if it means teaching them "how to open an instagram account" or solving their query as to "why can't they view someone else's story after 24 hours has passed". Ask them about their day and notice them getting excited about even the simplest of things they did. You may not realise but even those 5 minutes you spend laughing with them maybe the best part of their day. They are the most trustworthy advisors you can have in life who will let you shine selflessly. Listen to their advice before taking drastic steps in life.

Sticking to one's opinions and being clear in your mind about things you want or are important for you and makes you a Stronger and Brighter Individual. You have more time to focus on other things such as reading books, studying and actually relating to your studies or getting done with your assigned task at work in a more efficient way.

Having clarity in your thoughts is not something everyone has but those who acquire this skill are always better in presenting one's thoughts. It also makes you more confident as an individual. Confidence, a realistic mindset and a creative head are very important for any job you wish to land in future.

LET THIS NEW YEAR BE A YEAR FOR YOU AND YOU ALONE!

Use the rising of the sun everyday as a ray of hope, motivation and a step towards a better future for yourself.