Just being

And that’s enough

It’s that time. So many are sharing sentiments about the past year and goals for the next. Thinking about ways they’ve changed or haven’t. Reflecting on accomplishments or failures. Imagining what could come to pass in the new year or what they can make happen. Putting down plans and hopes, maybe crafting careful timelines to achieve those things.

I applaud all of this. But personally? I don’t have the energy. I find it exhausting to sift back through the last 12 months. And looking ahead when *gestures at everything* is still happening… it’s overwhelming. That all sounds cynical, but really, I’m clinging to mindfulness and keeping my feet and my thoughts in the present. Attempting to put my mind in the current moment—not dwelling on the past or fretting about the future—is enough to wrangle.

This newsletter is made for a soothing waterfall picture.

So here I am, just being. Writing books when I have the energy (and/or a deadline). Cooking a million new recipes. Relishing my breakfast smoothie. Playing games with my husband. Taking walks. Doing yoga in my office. Reading while snuggling cats and sipping tea. Trying my best to be compassionate and helpful to those I meet. Putting my best into work and setting it aside when my hours are done. Clinging to those boundaries I set. Spending time with people who bring me joy and people I learn from.

Just being is enough, I promise.

Don’t measure yourself against others. That’s futile in the brightest of times and especially so now. Didn’t have any big personal revelations in 2021? That’s okay! Struggled with literally everything? You’re not alone. Don’t have a list of goals for the new year? You’re fine without them. And I have a hunch you’ll find some as you go, without the pressure of New Year’s in the age of social media breathing down your neck.

Keep on being. You’re enough.

I’ll be back with my usual updates, book stuff, and everything else in my next newsletter in a couple of weeks. Until then, my 2022 wish is for all of us to be well and to be kind to ourselves.

Happy New Year.
Amy