12 Unique Life Resolutions

 

Habits to Improve Your Life Today

 As we go through life, it's easy to fall into certain habits and routines that can hold us back from reaching our full potential. Of course, we all know that we should exercise more, eat healthier, and manage our finances better, but there are other habits that we can cultivate that can be just as valuable.

Here are 12 unique life resolutions/habits that can help you improve your life today:

1. Intentionally laugh every day - Laughter has been proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and exercise muscles. But, more importantly, it can change your outlook on life and bring you joy and hope. So, make it a point to practice laughter daily, especially on tough days.
2. Practice solitude—Find time to be alone in quiet regularly. No books, no music, no outside voices—just you alone with yourself. This habit can help you discover things about yourself you never knew and give you a better understanding of who you are.
3. Make gratitude a discipline - Express gratitude to someone or something each day. Gratitude refocuses our attention away from what we don't have and redirects it towards what we do. As a result, it naturally causes contentment and generosity to spring up in our lives.
4. Slow down - Take the time to slow down, whether while driving or in your daily activities. Life is not a race; by slowing down the journey and being more present.
5. Fast one day by slowing down each month—Fasting has been practised in nearly every religious tradition, teaching us self-control, self-denial, and sacrifice. It can also heighten our senses and give us a better appreciation for the things we have.
6. Adopt a "Do it Now" mentality—Procrastination can result in unnecessary stress, so try to cultivate the habit of doing things right away instead of putting them off.
7. Eat more vegetables—Eating more vegetables is a simple and measurable approach to achieving weight loss goals. Additionally, it gives us more energy, more self-esteem, and more opportunities to fight illness and disease.
8. Read classical books from different centuries - Books that have lasted centuries contain timeless human truths that can still apply today. Rediscovering how men and women approached life hundreds of years ago can give us a new perspective and help us grow.
9. Remove pornography - Pornography can limit our capacity to appreciate the natural world and its people. By sacrificing the temporal pleasure of pornography, we can live a life that can better appreciate the simple joys of the people and relationships around us.
10. Go to bed earlier - Changing just the first hour of your day changes the remaining 23, and the best way to change the first hour is to get a good night's sleep. In addition, going to bed earlier may surprise you with how it naturally benefits other areas of your life.
11. Give to a charity—Pick and donate to a cause you strongly believe in. The act of giving can bring joy not only to yourself but also to others. If you can spread that much joy by filling out a check, just imagine the joy you'll spread if you volunteer your time and talents.
12. Date your spouse—Take your spouse or partner on a date at least once a month. This can help you have fun, reconnect, and strengthen your union. It doesn't have to cost much, as plenty of low-cost or free date ideas exist.

These unique life resolutions/habits may not be mainstream, but they can be just as valuable in helping you live a

Silence

Nobody asked me, and I haven't told

The secrets that I keep locked in my soul

The pain, the fear, the hurt, the shame

All hidden behind a mask of fame

I've given up on ever being heard

My thoughts and feelings, like a prison, blurred

I wear this mask of strength and grace

But inside, I'm just a hopeless case

I've tried to reach out, but it's no use

My cries for help are just another excuse

I'm trapped in this cycle, day by day

Nobody cares, so why should I say?

I've lost all hope in myself and in others

I'm just a shell, like a withered flower

Nobody asked me, and I haven't told

But it doesn't matter.

 My story will never be told.

I'll just fade away in silence and despair

Nobody will know, nobody will care

But that's okay because it's just who I am

A lost soul in a world that doesn't give a damn

Farewell to Family

The last goodbye is said,

To parents and siblings dear,

As we hold on to the thread,

Of a love that's always near.

We say farewell to what was,

From the childhood that we knew,

But in our hearts, there's a buzz,

Of love, that will always be true.

We'll remember the laughter,

And the tears that we shared,

For in our hearts forever after,

You will always be there.

Though we may be apart,

Our bond will still remain,

For in our hearts, a part of you,

Will forever remain.

The last goodbye is said,

But it's not the end,

For in our hearts, you'll always be,

Our family, our closest friends.

We'll carry your love with us,

As we journey on ahead,

And in every step we take,

We'll know you're there, with us, in our hearts,

Until we see you again.

Anticipation's Embrace

In anticipation's grasp,

Grief takes hold so tightly,

As we wait for what must pass,

Our hearts feel heavy, rightly.

We know what's yet to come,

But cannot change fate,

So in our minds, we hum,

A mournful, endless wait.

We grieve for what will be,

And all that will be lost,

For memories yet to flee,

At any cost.

We fear the final goodbye,

The end of what we know,

But in this grief, we find,

A love that continues to grow.

We hold on to the past,

And all the moments shared,

For in anticipatory grief,

Love is always bared.

So let us embrace this pain,

And find comfort in the tears,

For in anticipation's embrace,

Our loved ones are always near

Breaking the Spiral: A Poem on Overcoming Negative Emotions

When the shadows start to creep,

And the darkness starts to seep,

Into my mind, my heart, my soul,

I feel a weight that makes me whole.

A spiral starts to take me down,

A spiral of emotions that I can't drown,

The negative thoughts that swirl around,

A never-ending cycle that can't be found.

A voice inside my head speaks,

Of all my fears, my doubts, my weaknesses,

It tells me I'm not good enough,

That I'll never rise above this stuff.

But I know that this is not true,

For in the darkness, light shines through,

A glimmer of hope that I must seek,

To break the chains of this negative peak.

So I'll take a deep breath and try again,

To push away the shadows and let the light in,

For I know that I am strong and brave,

And in the end, I'll rise above this wave.

One Sided Love

One-sided love, 

a lonely game,

A love that's not returned,

 with no one to claim.

A love that's hidden,

 A love that's true.

A love that's unrequited,

 A love that's blue.

It's a love that's whispered in

 silent prayers,

A love that's kept hidden, 

away from stares.

It's a love that's meant to be

 kept inside,

A love that's meant to be 

kept to reside.

It's a love that's built on 

a dream,

A love that's built on

 a silent scream.

It's a love that's meant to be

 unrequited,

A love that's meant to be

 denied.

But true love is a

 different thing,

A love that's pure, 

a love that's ring.

It's a love that's built on,

 trust and care,

A love that's built to,

 last and repair.

So let go of the one-sided love,

And find one that will,

 lift you above.

For true love is worth the wait,

And will make your heart

 truly great.

Overcoming Trans-Generational Trauma

Trans-generational Trauma: Healing the Wounds of the Past

Trans-generational trauma transfers emotional and psychological pain from generation to generation. It is a phenomenon that occurs when the traumatic experiences of one generation are passed down to the next, resulting in a cycle of negative behaviours and patterns that can last for generations. Many people suffer from the effects of trans-generational trauma, whether they know it or not. However, healing from this type of trauma is possible and begins with understanding its roots and effects.

The roots of trans-generational trauma can be traced back to our childhood experiences, where we learn how to interact with the world around us from our parents and caregivers. These experiences shape our beliefs, values, and behaviours and can profoundly impact our lives. Trauma can occur in many forms, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence. When these experiences are not addressed, they can be passed down to the next generation, creating a cycle of pain and suffering.

The effects of trans-generational trauma are numerous and can be seen in the behaviours of individuals and families. These effects can include addiction, mental health issues, relationship problems, and a general sense of disconnectedness from oneself and others. In addition, many people who have experienced transgenerational trauma may struggle with shame, guilt, and worthlessness. These feelings can lead to a cycle of negative behaviours and patterns that can be difficult to break.

Healing from trans-generational trauma begins with acknowledging its effects and taking responsibility for one's healing. First, it is essential to understand that our parents did their best with the available knowledge and resources. By accepting this fact, we can begin to have compassion for our parents and start the healing process.

Break the cycle of trans-generational trauma, and it is necessary to adopt behaviours and patterns that prevent the transfer of trauma to the next generation. It can involve seeking therapy or other professional help, practising self-care and self-compassion, and creating healthy boundaries and relationships. It is also essential to focus on healing the emotional wounds of our childhood and to know ourselves so that we can play a positive role in society.

Good parenting is essential in preventing the transfer of trans-generational trauma. Parents healed from childhood trauma are better equipped to provide their children with a safe and nurturing environment. It involves creating a space where children feel heard, seen and valued, and their emotions are validated and accepted.

In conclusion, healing from trans-generational trauma is possible. It involves acknowledging the effects of our childhood experiences, taking responsibility for our healing, and adopting behaviours and patterns that prevent the transfer of trauma to the next generation. Doing so can break the cycle of pain and suffering and create a brighter future for ourselves and those around us.

1. Practice self-reflection: Take the time to reflect on your own childhood experiences and how they have shaped you. Consider how your parents or grandparents' experiences may have influenced their behaviour and parenting style.
2. Seek therapy: If you are struggling with the effects of transgenerational trauma, seeking the help of a therapist or counsellor can be highly beneficial. They can help you work through your emotions and develop coping strategies.
3. Educate yourself: Learn about the impact of trauma on the brain and how it can be passed down through generations. It can help you better understand your own experiences and those of your family members.
4. Practice self-care: Engage in activities that promote your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It can include exercise, mindfulness meditation, time in nature, or connecting with supportive friends and family members.
5. Break the cycle: Make a conscious effort to break the cycle of trauma and abuse by adopting healthy behaviours and parenting practices. Focus on positive communication, empathy, and building solid relationships with your loved ones.
6. Forgive: Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting or condoning harmful behaviour, but it can help you let go of anger and resentment towards your parents or other family members. It can be a complex process, but it can be incredibly liberating.

Remember, healing from transgenerational trauma is a journey that may not happen overnight. Be patient with yourself and seek support when needed. With time and effort, it is possible to break the cycle and create a brighter future for yourself and your loved ones.

A Journey of Becoming 'People for Others

As a mental health professional, I understand the importance of being "people for others." It means shifting our focus, noticing others, caring about them, and taking action to support them. It's essential to recognize what this looks like from the perspective of the people we encounter daily.

Reflecting on my journey, I recall when I was in the midst of a career shift, trying to find the desired job and struggling with parenthood. During those dark and cold days, I thought and searched for what I could do to move forward. While browsing the web, I stumbled upon the concept of following one's passion, but I couldn't figure out my passion.

As I dug deeper, I realized I enjoyed talking to people, listening to them, and providing them with ideas to overcome their situations. This realization led me to enrol in a university course on counselling and psychotherapy. After sending an email, I received a response that I had been accepted, and I was ecstatic.

Reflecting on my experience, I understand that being "people for others" requires us to focus on others, listen to them, and provide support. We can positively impact those around us by recognizing our passions and aligning them with our actions. It's crucial to reflect on our thoughts and feelings, identify what drives us, and take action to support our mental and emotional well-being. Being "people for others" is a continuous process of self-discovery and improvement. It requires us to shift our focus from ourselves to others and listen to and support them. Following and aligning our passions with our actions can positively impact those around us and enhance our mental and emotional well-being.

 

As I reflect on my journey towards becoming a person for others, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to shift my focus towards others and their needs. Of course, it wasn't always easy, especially when I was caught up in the daily grind of job hunting and trying to raise my children. But, as Khalil Gibran said, "The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention," I knew it was time to start putting my good intentions into action.

During those dark, cold, and short winter days, I thought and searched for my true passion. I knew there was more to life than just trying to survive each day, and I was determined to find out what that was. After browsing the web and considering various options, I realized I had always been passionate about helping others. I love talking to people, listening to them, and giving them ideas to overcome challenges. That's when I knew counselling and psychotherapy were my paths.

I was excited and motivated as I began my journey towards this new career. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to make a difference in the lives of others. As Mother Teresa said, "I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples." I was ready to create those ripples and positively impact the world.

The journey towards becoming a person for others is not just about taking action but also about cultivating a mindset of empathy and compassion. As the Dalai Lama said, "If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion." By shifting our focus towards others and their needs, we improve their lives and our own.

On a typical day, being a person for others means noticing the people around us and caring about them. It means taking the time to listen to their stories and offering a helping hand when needed. It can be as simple as a smile, a kind word, or a small act of kindness. As Maya Angelou said, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

 Becoming a person for others involves self-discovery, empathy, and compassion. It's about finding our genuine passion and using it to positively impact the world. As we shift our focus towards others, we improve their lives and our own. So, let's commit to practising compassion and kindness every day and create ripples of positive change in the world.