6 Things You Can Do to End 2015 Right

With the year coming to an end, we’re so focused on the coming year and what’s in front of us which is pretty normal as we move toward a new beginning. But I want to urge you to seek to be present and mindful through this holiday season instead of rushing into the next year, because there’s still a lot to be accomplished and many things you can do to end this year right.

1. Do something nice for someone else.

   Although the holidays are so much about gifts and buying for others, there is still a lot we can do to give back to those around us, in non-material ways. For example, you can take some time to help the elderly, help out at the local animal shelter, help your neighbor with their groceries, participate in Toys for Tots, smile at a stranger, and the list goes on. Bottom line, do something that will make someone else feel good; it’s the season of giving so get creative and do so in small but impactful ways.

2. Get started on your New Year’s resolutions early.
   

   The new year is coming and many of us put off beginning our resolutions until then, but you don’t have to. Start your journey toward health and wellness early. Take some time to start eating healthier, moving more, and getting more sleep, even before the year is up. I promise, it makes achieving your new years resolution, and sticking to it, much easier!

3. Write down what you’re grateful for.
   

   At the end of each year and beginning of a new year, I always take time to write what I’m grateful for in the year that’s closing, and what I’m hoping to achieve in the coming year. To make this process more fun and exciting you can buy yourself a new journal and colorful pen, it can make the whole process more fun. (Yes, sometimes something that simple is all it takes!)

4. Reconnect with an old friend.

   We find lots of time to be too busy to reach out to those whom we haven’t seen in a while, but it’s never too late, and there really is always time. Keep it simple by reaching out via text, email or even on social media if you can’t find the right time to call. It’s a simple task that can bring joy to everyone involved.

5. Take time to slow down.

   The one thing I really love about the holidays is that even though it’s busy, you can find quiet times. Take time to slow down, relax a little more when you find that you have some extra time, and really take a load off to relax and rejuvenate. You’ll need it in 2016!

6. Say thank you.

   Life is busy and as we rush into January it’ll get even busier. So use the next few weeks to finish writing the thank you notes you never got to earlier in the year, or simply call a friend, or thank someone in your life for something they do for you, or simply just for being there.

Here’s to a happy, healthy and mindful end to 2015!