In my latest book, Year of Tranquility, I start with an essay on Dreams (pp. 48-51) and encourage my reader to reflect on what she’d like more of/less of in her life and to picture herself at the end of the year.

I hope you’re settling into this new year and finding clarity. It’s slowly emerging for me. A few include: eat a salad daily, find more spaciousness, read 48 books, get to Paris.

When I say “spaciousness,” I think of French composer Claude Debussy’s quote, “Music is the space between the notes.” I need time being to offset all the doing and to appreciate what I see.

I used to dash into the new year with a big list. Now I allow it to unfold with direct care and feeding throughout the month of January. There’s no rush. And yet our future self is counting on us to take action.

Building on a previous podcast, consider your Year’s Dreams.

Pull out your journal, light a candle, pour a cuppa, and reflect:

1. What do I want and need?
2. How do I want to feel?
3. Where do I want to visit?
4. What recipes do I want to try?
5. What habits do I want to start or stop?
6. Who do I want to see?
7. What books do I want to read?
8. What events do I want to host and/or attend?
9. What practices do I want to start?
10. Visualize yourself at the end of this year. Clarify 5 to 10 SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals to bring that visualization to life.
11. Create a few action steps for each goal.

American statesman Paul Nitze wrote, “One of the most dangerous forms of human error is forgetting what one is trying to achieve.” Keep your dreams front and center.

Live your word/theme of the year. Stay connected to your dreams. Honor your progress. Shift course, as needed. Encourage growth. Be gentle with yourself. Get into good trouble. Celebrate your success.

Let’s bring our dreams to life and make a difference. Bisous.