A New Year’s resolution is typically a commitment to change a specific behavior, such as quitting smoking or starting to exercise. An intention, however, focuses on a broader goal or aspiration you want to achieve within the year. While resolutions are often made with sincerity, they frequently fail because they lack the structural link between the intent and the practical steps needed to realize it. For example, the failure to establish supportive habits often makes it challenging to sustain the resolution.
An alternative and more effective approach is to focus on the outcome in terms of who you want to be or become. This involves creating a vivid, emotionally charged visualization of your desired future self. Instead of simply setting a goal like “get fit,” imagine and deeply feel what it would be like to live as a fit person. Picture the energy, confidence, and joy you would experience, and craft a mental “movie script” of your life once you’ve achieved this state.
Taking it a step further, you can recognize that fitness itself is the result of a more disciplined life. Rather than envisioning only the physical aspects of fitness, you might focus on what it means to embody discipline. Imagine yourself consistently showing up for your commitments, managing your time effectively, and staying focused on your priorities. Visualize how it feels to live with clarity, purpose, and control over your choices.
By creating and regularly revisiting this compelling vision—whether it’s about being fit, disciplined, or both—you align your actions with your aspirations. This approach naturally draws you toward your desired future, reducing inner resistance and making change feel effortless and inspiring rather than forced.
What positive events have taken place in your life over the past year?
As I look back on 2024, I’m struck by the rich vista of experiences that have woven together to create a year of profound personal growth, family connections, and unexpected adventures. This year has been a beautiful blend of professional achievements, spiritual exploration, and cherished moments with loved ones.
Good memories
Family: The Heartbeat of My Year
Family has been the constant rhythm underlying every significant moment of 2024. From the very start, we kicked off the year at our beloved beach house in the southernmost point of Africa, setting a tone of togetherness and relaxation. Throughout the year, I treasured numerous precious moments: celebrating birthdays with my children and grandchildren, sharing coffee catch-ups, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. A particularly touching highlight was welcoming our kitten Shiva in June, bringing warmth and cuddles into our home during the middle of winter. Watching my grandchildren explore the world – whether at the World of Birds with monkeys climbing about, attending a first netball day, or sharing art experiences like introducing my granddaughter to watercolors – filled my heart with joy and wonder.
Professional and Personal Growth
This year presented remarkable opportunities for professional and personal development. In April, I was privileged to contribute to an international forum in Brazil developing guidelines for Artificial Intelligence implementation. This experience was not just professional but deeply personal, allowing me to explore spiritual and religious spaces in a new country. Back home, I continued to engage with technology and governance, participating in fascinating meetings like the IT forum for provincial legislators and an intriguing AI roundtable discussion. Our national elections resulted in a historic shift in our national political landscape, resulting in a Government of National Unity, was a moment of significant reflection and hope.
Spiritual and Personal Exploration
2024 was also a year of deep spiritual growth and scholarly pursuit in the realm of runic traditions. A significant milestone was the publication of FUTHORKH, the first journal of the Knights of Runes. In March, I was thrilled to receive this inaugural edition, which featured several of my own contributions. These included a comprehensive write-up on the purpose of the Knights of Runes, a profound reinterpretation of the first 80 verses of the Havamal, and an original rune poem that reflected my deep connection to these ancient symbolic traditions. My spiritual journey continued to unfold with various meaningful experiences. I marked a significant personal milestone by getting a tattoo of an Armanen rune row encircling a dragon, symbolizing my initiation into Norse mysteries. My Rosicrucian journey continued with meaningful experiences, including presenting a meditation presentation at the Cape Town Pronaos conclave. In October, I added to my scholarly collection by acquiring Gorsleben’s Edda, a treasured text that further deepened my exploration of runic wisdom and Norse spiritual traditions. This book represents more than just a purchase – it’s a gateway to deeper understanding and continued spiritual growth. I made deliberate efforts to connect with myself and nature. A day of solitary meditation at the Meulwater botanical gardens and an art project focusing on the four elements were powerful moments of self-discovery and introspection.
Adventures and Family Trips
Our road trips and outings were filled with excitement and discovery. A memorable two-week, 3000+ km journey to visit my mother was a highlight. Driving the 4×4 Gladiator route, enjoying a safari in Pilanesberg National Park, and spending time with my sisters created lasting memories.
Moments of Joy and Anticipation
The year was punctuated by moments of pure joy – like the exciting news of my stepson and his wife’s pregnancy, and the anticipation of a gender reveal in December. Family celebrations at restaurants, beach house retreats, and our first camping trip in years at Vloedbos resort were simple yet profound moments of connection.
Reflection
As I write this, looking forward to ending the year at our cherished Cape Agulhas beach house, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. 2024 has been a testament to the beauty of family, the excitement of personal growth, and the joy of unexpected adventures. Every challenge was balanced by moments of beauty, every professional engagement complemented by deep personal connections. It’s been a year of living fully, loving deeply, and embracing every experience with an open heart.
zeal4living