Endings, whether big or small, deserve to be honoured. They give us a chance to close one chapter before opening the next.
As we approach the end of the year, it’s a time that stirs all sorts of emotions in us. Some of us are racing to the finish line, just trying to get through. Others feel reflective, thinking back on the year that’s passed – the wins, the challenges, the moments of joy, and the times we’d rather forget.
Honouring Endings
Honour the moments of growth and let go of what no longer serves you.
We can start by practising gratitude for what we’ve experienced, learned, and accomplished. This not only boosts our mood but also creates a sense of closure.
Celebrating these endings, even in small ways, matters. Take the time to reflect on both the highlights and the low points, and what they’ve taught you. It could be through journaling, having a quiet moment of reflection, or even gathering with others to share what the year has meant to you.
A key concept in Positive Psychology is savouring – the act of mindfully acknowledging and appreciating the experiences we’ve had (the good and the lessons learnt by the bad). By savouring the end of a chapter, we make space for a more meaningful and positive transition into what’s next.
The Power of New Beginnings
The end of the year naturally turns our attention to what’s next. What are you yearning for in the year ahead? Maybe it’s a new job that excites you, or enriching your current work in a way that feels more fulfilling.
Perhaps it’s about feeling better in your skin, improving your wellbeing, or spending more time with the people who matter – whether it’s your kids or aging parents. Or maybe this is the year you want to dust off that passion project and get your creative juices flowing. Whatever it is, this is a powerful time to dream.
Intentions vs Resolutions
Setting intentions rather than rigid resolutions can make all the difference. Intentions are about focusing on how you want to feel, live, and grow.
The key is to break it down into small, doable steps. Each little achievement releases dopamine, that feel-good chemical, and we need bucket loads of dopamine to nurture our psychological wellbeing.
Visualising the steps along the way, not just the end goal, helps to create a map for your brain to follow. And as you make progress, your brain releases serotonin, giving you that feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction.
How to Make Intensions Stick
- Get clear on what you truly want
Take some time to reflect. What is it you’re really craving in your career, money, life, or wellbeing? Be honest with yourself – what would truly enrich your life? - Visualise it
Imagine what your life looks like when you’ve achieved that goal. How do you feel? Who’s with you? What’s different? Visualisation helps your brain get on board with your plans – it wires neurons as if what you are yearning for already exists. - Celebrate progress
It’s easy to forget the small wins when we’re focused on the big picture. But every little step matters. Each win gives your brain a little hit of dopamine, encouraging you to keep going. - Break it down
Big goals can feel overwhelming. The more overwhelmed we feel – the less dopamine (feel good) and serotonin (feel satisfied) we produce in our brain. We need to spark dopamine and serotonin in order to bring to life our intention. - Check in regularly
Life gets busy, and intentions can slip through the cracks. Set regular times to reflect on your progress, adjust your plans, and celebrate how far you’ve come.
Advice from our Experts 