Today, a client told me wishing people a "good ending to the year" is a tradition in the small part of Germany where she was born. What a beautiful way to remind us to savor endings as well as new beginnings. Which brings me to...
Dec - embering.
As the year winds down and it is colder and darker here in the Northeast U.S., I gravitate toward quiet practices - rituals - that help me reflect on the year that was, and listen for what I need and want for the year to come. The image of a fire burning low, embers glowing but still warm, feels right for this transition time from 2023 to 2024.
Here are some of the things I do that allow me to think, intuit, feel, write, and imagine.
Feel free to borrow.
3 Ways to Say Goodbye to 2023 and Welcome 2024
1. Feel the glow with TGTJ
For those of you who have been reading this newsletter for years, you already know the Good Things Jar. This year's GTJ is full and I'm ready for the waves of warm feelings I get when reading all the good things that happened to those I care about, and to me, in 2023 ( I know, I know, but there were and are....).
Read more about how here.
2. What burned as needed, and what will serve as kindling to renew the fire?
As you can see from the photo, drawing talent is not needed for this one! I learned this technique from Cultural Anthropologist, Angeles Arriens.
The process of making this drawing taps into my subconscious to reveal what I need to integrate into my life at this time. I draw 8 symbols in a circle and use their meaning (per Ms. Arriens) to interpret the drawing and write what I've learned. Every year I am surprised and informed!
3. New Firewood with the Word of 2024
Next, I create my 'word of the year'. If you've never done this, it can be a powerful engine for growth and inspiration that keeps the fire alive all year long. This activity involves asking yourself several questions, responding in writing, and then crafting a word or phrase to guide your choices in 2024. My word last year was, Communicate. 2024 TBD
Try these and if you've got some good ones, please share!!
Judy Garfinkel helps you clarify "what's next." Her expertise in building confidence and resilience supports personal development and the ability to navigate career and work transitions – especially now! She is a certified Trauma Informed Coach. Judy also crafts bespoke resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and bios that open doors for her clients and land jobs. Judy is a Past President of the International Coaching Federation - Connecticut Chapter, where she led 250+ member coaches. You can reach her at judy@moveintochange.com.