Another year has come and gone . . . Did you finish well? Perhaps you are ready for a fresh start? That is what a new year brings: a chance to start all over, make some needed changes, and even perhaps continue the direction we’ve been heading with an extra little push. It is like the snow we recently experienced. It was exciting for us because it isn’t the “norm” here in Georgia. We, unlike many other states, don’t even own snow blowers and snow plows! Most of our little “Georgia Peaches” use makeshift sleds, trash can lids, cardboard, etc. to play in the snow. Typically, a couple of times a year we are lucky to have just enough snow to throw a few snowballs and make a wimpy-looking snowman. Then two or three days later, there isn’t a sign of snow anywhere! The difference is, it is beautiful, enticing and enjoyable for us because it isn’t overwhelming! It is a simple pleasure.
That is where we find ourselves today, at the start of this new year. A fresh fallen snow . . . a clean slate . . . a new beginning! I believe the key to being able to enjoy this new year, become more productive and successful in each area of our endeavors is to K.I.S.S. the old goodbye and welcome this new year with a great, big, juicy, K.I.S.S. Yes, I do mean “Keep It Simple Sweetie!” (In our home of young children, the word “stupid” isn’t permitted.)
By nature, I have the tendency to want to “do it all” and I am a dreamer. In fact, one of my many weaknesses is to dream big, start with a huge bang and then burn out before I have completed my project, tire of it quickly, or realize that I have once again over-committed. I find I “delegate” it to someone else, procrastinate, or just move onto the next big dream. I am trying to learn to take smaller servings and not to attempt to eat the entire pie myself! I want to continue savoring life without overindulging. I am discovering the best way to live this way is to simplify. If I dream it, I will make bite-size plans on how to obtain it or I will leave it for another time. There will be fresh snow again later and maybe next time I will be able to see my own snow angel and know that I have left a positive – and perhaps even glorious – impression on the world around me!
It is fine to dream; the world could use a few more positive dreamers. But it is time for each of us to K.I.S.S. and make-up!!
