Well, here we are in 2023, and I am so grateful to continue this journey of self-discovery with you! I appreciate how we can come together as a tribe and also explore our own unique journey at the same time.

How are things going to unfold this year? There may be part of us that is curious to know.

Yet, the truth is, we can set intentions and have a game plan, but there are no guarantees for what happens next.

How it all plays out may be a mystery but how we treat ourselves within the unfoldment of our soul's journey is in our hands.

During the holidays, I once again devoted time to reflect on the year that has passed. It's something that I find both meaningful and insightful. Writing about what I experienced, what I learned, the highs and lows, what transformed, and what matters to me now.

Every year brings something new.

For me, 2022 felt like a year of shining light on the darkness and dissolving ego structures and old-outdated beliefs. In the dissolving, there was, and continues to be, a transformation, an awakening, or rebirth.

Interestingly, as the structures have dissolved, there is more space in my mind and body for the light to shine through, creating a deeper connection to my true essence.

This is freedom.

It feels good to take the time to acknowledge the many changes I've made, including how my approach to self-discovery has changed over the years. I appreciate my capacity for self-compassion and my willingness to be here right now in the immediacy of my experience.

Compassion is something so essential and precious. When we invite compassion into our life, it is a catalyst for miracles. My heart feels touched as I write this. This is my truth.

As I reflect on last year, I can see the perfection of how everything unfolded. It wasn't my plan, but it was the Universe's plan.

Can you relate to this at all?

When I brought in more compassion, it empowered me to access my inner resources and support myself with greater self-reassurance. There was tenderness and, in that tenderness, was also so much strength.

Self-compassion builds our resiliency. It is the path of a spiritual warrior.

When we are passionate about improving our overall well-being and quality of life, and there is compassion and gentleness in the mix, it is a much different energy or vibe than striving to fix ourselves or looking outside of ourselves to feel whole enough.

And when we add gratitude to the recipe, it creates a sweetness that can change the lens through which we see ourselves and life in general.

How do you feel as you enter 2023?

Have you taken time to reflect on this past year and what matters to you now?

I encourage you to set aside some time to reflect and write about this. When we live with awareness and intention, we become more and more aligned with our soul's longing and purpose.

Get close to it. Feel it. Align our life with it, and courageously explore the mystery of who we are and the mystery of life itself.

What do you desire?
How do you want to feel?
How do you want to show up for yourself and life?

Developing a word that encompasses the energy you wish to bring forth for the year is helpful.

Like the North Star, it helps guide us toward the unique journey of our soul.

What might your word be?

Some ideas:
Balanced. Energized. Peaceful. Purposeful. Compassionate. Self-love. Joyful. Healthy. Grateful. Reflective. Mindful. Curious. Generous. Aware.

This year my word is Passion.

Passion for the Truth, for being of service, for life in general.

This practice is an example of living life with intention and holding space for our desires while allowing the mystery to unfold.

It doesn't mean we won't wander off course; it happens. What's important is holding onto self-compassion, knowing we are doing the best we can and can push the reset button at any time.

Here’s a quick tool to help us stay on course is check-ins as we go about our day…

Ask yourself:

Is this (thought, habit, idea) bringing me closer to my intention and desire or further away?

When we are clear about what we want for ourselves while letting go of striving to achieve a particular outcome, it's impressive to see what unfolds before us. Doing so is an incredible form of self-love, being here in the moment, in our truth, authentically and compassionately.

Wishing you all the best in the year ahead. I look forward to connecting with you, and please feel free to reach out if I can be of help along the way in your own personal journey.

With love,

Diane