The thing I read most often in the first of January is: “New Year, New Me”. And I’ve been down that road myself. But I’ve come to realize this year that I don’t need a new me. I just need me. So I’m trying something new this year (yes, I know how that sounds).
A friend of mine chooses a word to focus on each year. I love that idea. I love it so much I conned my best friend into doing it with me this year. Her word jumped out at her before I could finish typing my follow up message to her. Mine was slower. My word for the year is “well being”. Though, technically, I think that’s a phrase haha but my focus needs to be in being the best version of myself I can be. It includes self-care like remembering my vitamins every morning and making sure my hair gets washed on schedule (it’s a whole ordeal because it’s long and thick). It includes following through on commitments I make and drawing boundaries (learning to say no) so I don’t over commit myself. It includes getting the proper exercise and eating the right foods (for me… Not a diet, just a lack of thinking that one food I want won’t hurt me just this one time).
It also includes being true to myself. When I started publishing my novels, I shortened Melanie to Lanie because there’s a Melanie Goodell with a huge web presence and I wanted my books to show up before all her pediatric articles. But somewhere along the way I lost Meli. And this year I’m reclaiming her along with my health and my calm.
This isn’t just a resolutions thing. I started a month or so ago. I reintroduced myself to some of the parents at my school. I like hearing my real name. I like having a diet that makes me feel good, not just food that slows me down or makes me tired. But by stating all of this publicly, I’m more likely to follow through.
I hope each of you has a wonderful 2024.
PS: my son says my cells are regenerating so I’m a new me whether I want to be or not lmao sigh…
Lanie Goodell 