Inspiration Mondays: Circles and Affirmations

It is traditional in the Philippines to have circles all around you on New Year's Eve: oranges, grapes, buns, pastries... You wear polka dots and bracelets. They symbolize the cycle of the year, the continual renewal of life.

It is also traditional for many cultures to think about the things we want to accomplish in the new year. This year, I've decided to note down the things I've learned and wish to continue to affirm in the future. So, in no particular order:

1. There is yet to be a big, difficult task that could not be broken down into a series of small, simpler ones. This means that all things are possible if you just buckle down and get to work.
2. In this part of the world, there will always be more food. You can always have more tomorrow.
3. The moment you think you are better than someone else, prepare to be squashed.
4. If the dentist says you should wear a mouth guard when you sleep, wear the frigging mouth guard.
5. The hardest person to forgive is in the mirror. Cut that person some slack.
6. People are usually kinder than you think they are.
7. Everyone is fighting some sort of personal battle. That means they deserve your kindess.
8. If you want to get knitting done, get knitting done. Same goes for spinning, crochet, and laundry.
9. Cookies are not fuel for your body. Do not attempt a workout if you have eaten a bunch.
10. Stretch.
11. Sleep. If you can't sleep, at least rest.
12. Walk your dog everyday. Not only is it good for you and your dog, but you have no idea how happy it makes your lonely neighbours to see you go past.
13. Be kind to your spouse, even if they break stuff. You're bound to screw up, too.
14. Smile, even if you don't feel like it. But if you really can't, at least shut the door so the others around you don't get dragged down by your grumpiness.
15. Be grateful for every single thing you get, even if it's not what you wanted.
16. Worrying doesn't make stuff happen. Only work makes stuff happen.
17. Say thank you every single day.

Speaking of, thanks for visiting my blog. Happy New Year, and enjoy the start of a new circle.