Reflections on realizations and resolutions (2017)

RESOLUTIONS are oftentimes associated with the start of a new year. A new calendar year for some signifies new beginnings, and the end of a previous chapter. Though quite frankly, I’ve never seen things this way. But if I were to give each of you a single piece of advice to carry with you as we start 2018, it is a reminder that the time is now. Not later, but now. Think about it: why would we wait for tomorrow to accomplish something when we can get it done today? And while I know there are a million and one potential answers to that question, if we were to rationalize all of the possibilities, we would quickly find them to be all excuses. Valid, or invalid, that is at your discretion. Because at the end of the day, it is all about perspective and mindset. What I am most certain of though is that while people often wait for the start of a new year to set goals and resolutions for themselves, anytime really is as good a time as now.

We have dreams. And for as long as we shall live, we will continue to dream because we are innately hopeful beings. And whether or not we admit it, we strive to thrive. What our dreams are today, may not necessarily bear any weight on our future, but it could also be that the fruition of our dreams may be life-changing. Whatever the case may be, remember to turn setbacks into stepping stones for self-betterment. Embracing the opportunity to humble oneself (though difficult at times) is one of the greatest lessons you will ever learn, and will continue to learn. Admit your mistakes. Always. It is the first step on your lifelong journey to self-actualization, and really, a most noble and respectable act.

Do not be afraid to learn something new. Whether that be a new language, a new sport, or pursuing a hobby, there is always room for growth. You get what you ask for, always remember that. Do not expect people to read in between the lines – say what you mean, and mean what you say. You are responsible for your choices, so choose well, and live with the choices you make. You are the sole author of your life, and that life is shaped by your series of decisions. Step out of your comfort zone and confines. Broaden your horizons, networks, and perspectives. You never know how much today’s stranger can enrich your life, and become an invaluable part of your tomorrow. Do not ever shelter your mind from learning, and always be open to hearing out, and learning from others. You will soon learn that though we live in a diverse and vast world, it is so much smaller than we think in terms of mindset and best practices. Business disciplines intersect more than we tend to perceive – across the oceans at that. Never isolate your experiences and label them as solely your own. Because while it may seem unique at the onset, someone, in a different corner of the world is going through the same. Be open to solving crises through a multitude of ways and in multi-faceted approaches.

Accolades and recognition come when you least expect them to. And most of the time, they can catch you off-guard. Accept it wholeheartedly, but don’t let it be your driving force, or primary source of motivation. Sure it heightens your self-esteem, and to some extent gives you a notion of prestige, but do not let it take over the better of you. It is not healthy for your ego, and you will thank yourself later. You are only as good as your last accomplishment, so do not bask in the limelight too long. People know the truth, and those who believe in your vision will march along with you. Prizes and rewards are not meant to be chased. These things find you when you deserve it – the worthwhile ones at least. Hard work, perseverance and determination will always be noticed.

Birthdays are milestones worth celebrating. No matter how big, or small, it is time to indulge yourself a little (or a lot), because you do deserve it. There is no more heartwarming feeling than knowing that your birthday is remembered – by your loved ones, and friends you have not heard from in years alike. Thoughtfulness is underrated, but cherished. It is okay to be hard on yourself, because success is sweeter, and more rewarding when attained. But do remember to give yourself a pat on the back once in a while. There is absolutely no need to stress out everyone around you when you are going through a toxic time – much can be achieved in an environment of calm, and we can certainly do without the unnecessary frenzy. Remember, people deal with stress and grief in different ways. Respect those differences, because when you have to go through it, you will appreciate it given back a thousand fold.

People want to help, and give back to the greater community, they oftentimes just do not know how, and/or are in search of a worthwhile and reliable platform they can identify with. I feel like a broken record saying this, but it is true. Lend a hand, and extend the opportunity for your neighbors to become an involved citizen outside the confines of their immediate community. Be aware that people will have different incentives, reasons and motives to help out. And whatever pushes them forth to do so is beyond your concern. What matters to you is that you perpetuate the help they are giving your cause to bring it to new heights. Some people will never realize the excruciating work that goes into making moves within the non-profit sector. Funds won’t raise themselves, neither will programs run themselves, and seamlessly at that. It is a great responsibility no doubt, but always remember that it is an even greater honor and privilege to be doing something for the future of our country.

As I was trekking through the snow and slushy streets of New York City last week on the last day of 2017, I came across a greeting card in a quaint shop selling every imaginable knick knack there is. It read, “Life is not meant to be lived, but celebrated.” And after reflecting on the year that was, and all that transpired in the last 365 days, I realized with much pondering that it is in fact true. We only have one life to live, and while there are a number of non-negotiables that we may face from time to time, we ultimately have a choice to make the most out of it. Be productive. Be positive. And be someone that YOU are proud to be. After all, no gift is greater than self-content and happiness.

So though resolutions are not at all a bad thing, I still stand by my belief that we must not wait for a new beginning, or a new chapter in our story called life to unfold to start anew and work toward selfbetterment. For we have the opportunity to make it happen NOW. Start today, and claim that your best is yet to come. Seize the day. Carpe diem.