Growing older is inevitable. As my birthday approached this year I reflected on what birthdays really mean. The obvious answer is a celebration of the day you were born and adding on another year of life. In addition birthdays can symbolize many positive things. Getting older does not have to bear a negative connotation. Aging is a necessary part of life.
Birthdays can be a time for reflection followed by goal setting. One can look back on where they have been and decide which direction to proceed next in life. Whether it’s a job, family, health, relationships etc, a realistic goal can be set each year. Make sure the goal is positive and measurable. With each birthday you can also hold yourself accountable for goals left unmet. Write your goals down, then review them on your next birthday. Positive goals set in motion positive change. The first step can be as simple as changing your thinking. Turning “I will“ into “ I can” then to “I have”. You can’t change your actions without changing your thoughts then feelings. New Years is not the only time resolutions can be creatived.
Birthdays are great times to cleanse your life of negative people, places, and things. Reset you spirit and soul, starting with the energy around you. No day is promised and your next birthday is not guaranteed. Use the day to mark the day you let go of anything draining from days and years past. Forgive yourself. Use this birthday to start healing. Declare the next season as a season for growth and forward mobility. Set that therapy appointment you have been putting off. Throw out that clutter, delete that number, block that page, leave that home, say that payer, shed those tears, and move on. This concept is easier said than done. A birthday is just one opportunity. Consistency will be the key to success. Speaking things into existence then having faith is powerful. Look in the mirror from each day forward and commit to forgiving yourself for past behaviors and actions.
Let us not forget birthdays are a blessing. Celebrate however you see fit, as long as you acknowledge the day. This year Covid 19 is still ravaging my city. Places are open, but to me going out is not worth increasing my risk of getting myself or my family ill. However, celebrate in a manner you are comfortable with. It’s a big deal, some individuals don’t see 1 years old sadly. Each year should be cherished. I thank God for my health, current stability, family and friends. What are you thankful for this birthday? Did anyone assist you in making it to this day? Thank your support system as well. Say a prayer, journal, create a vision board, make a video, write a long post, yell happy birthday from a mountain top with joy and gratitude.
Birthdays can be great times to make amends and seek closure. Apologize to those you have hurt. Commit to rebuilding broken relationships. Sometimes time heals all wounds. This birthday may be the day to make that call or send that message “I am sorry”. Don’t boggle your self down with expectations of the other individuals response. Set it, then forget it, your part is complete. Free yourself of baggage you created that weighs you down with each year. Sometimes the only closure is letting go, transcending to new levels with the gift of knowledge and understanding. This year hold yourself to a higher standard. Become a person you can be proud of.
Aging for adults does not have to have a negative underlying theme. Be thankful, set goals, commit to change, improve emotional wellness, break bad habits, seek new supports, step outside of your comfort zone this year. Most of all celebrate, celebrate, celebrate. Live your best life.
Love this post! Birthdays are so much more than just a celebration!
Great read and perspective. Happy birthday!