Embracing the New Year!

Jan 17 / Jess Gronholm
As we step into the New Year, there's an undeniable sense of possibility that fills the air. The turning of the calendar isn't just a change in date; it's an opportunity—a fresh start to become who you really want to be. But here's the kicker: to truly embrace this chance, we need to practice gratitude for ourselves while letting go of the decisions that no longer serve us. 

The Importance of Self-Gratitude

First, let’s talk about self-gratitude. So often, we’re quick to highlight what went wrong over the course of the past year—mistakes, missed opportunities, and those moments we wish we could erase. But what if we flipped the script? Instead of focusing on shortcomings, what if we took a moment to celebrate the brave decisions we did make, the challenges we faced head-on, and the lessons we learned along the way?
Acknowledging our efforts fuels a positive mindset. Gratitude shifts our focus from scarcity to abundance. When we appreciate our resilience, courage, and growth, we create a powerful foundation for the year ahead. It's about recognizing that you’re doing the best you can with the tools you have—and that’s something to be grateful for.

Letting Go of the Past

Now, let’s discuss letting go. This can be one of the hardest parts of moving forward. We often allow past decisions—those nagging “what-ifs” and “if-onlys”—to weigh us down like anchors. But here's a tough love reminder: those decisions are just chapters in your story, not the whole narrative.
To step into the New Year with intent, we must learn to release what no longer aligns with who we are becoming. This doesn’t mean forgetting your past or glossing over what happened; it means understanding that every decision, good or bad, has shaped you into who you are today. Acknowledge it, learn from it, and then let it go. You have the power to choose your future, and that future starts now.

The Connection Between Gratitude and Letting Go

When you practice gratitude, you create space for joy and fulfillment, which makes it easier to release the burdens of the past. This New Year, why not start a gratitude journal? Write down the things you appreciate about yourself and the lessons from past experiences that you wouldn’t trade for anything. Reflect on your growth and the strength you have within.
As you make space for gratitude in your life, you’ll find it easier to detach from the weight of past decisions. You’ll discover that letting go isn’t about forgetting; it’s about freeing yourself to pursue the life you really want.

Action Steps to Harness the New Year

Here’s how you can put this into practice:

  1. Gratitude Reflection: Take time to reflect on your year. What are you proud of? What lessons have you learned? Write these down.
  2. Release Ritual: Create a ritual for letting go. It could be as simple as writing down what you want to release and then symbolically letting it go—burning the paper or tossing it into the ocean.
  3. Set Intentions: Rather than resolutions that can feel limiting or daunting, set intentions for how you want to feel and act in this New Year. 
  4. Daily Practice: Incorporate daily gratitude exercises. Start or end your day by listing three things you’re thankful for about yourself or your life.


As the New Year unfolds, remember that it’s not just a new date—it’s a powerful opportunity for transformation. By practicing gratitude and letting go of outdated decisions, you can step into your power and embrace the potential that lies ahead. This is your moment. Own it, celebrate it, and let’s make this year the best one yet.