December 2019
A New Year and a New You?
At the close of the year, the days grow shorter and the nights longer which creates the time for reflection on the past, on where you are now and where you want to go from here. The New Year ushers in the time for resolutions and goals for self-improvement.
- What have you done in the past that was healthy
and “positive” for your life? Are you still doing that? If no, why not?
- What are you doing now that needs to be changed?
- What do you need to do in the future to be healthy; successful; happy?
These questions lead to thoughts of “self” improvement; you decide there are things you want to change and ways you want to grow to be a “better” you next year. It is valuable to recognize what must change to lead you to your goals but can you really change by looking inward? Can you “change” yourself without outer influences? In other words, you act upon what you already know; you are who you are because of all that you have learned and done up to this point. But, can you change and become a different person without looking outside of yourself to attain new knowledge or experiences?
If you really want to improve yourself, you are going to need to look beyond your “self”. You will need the knowledge, experience and influence of others. You are shaped by the people with whom you surround yourself, by the place you live, by the programs you watch, the things you read, by the work you do.
To improve your “self”, begin by looking at the influences surrounding you, and decide what you will change that will give you the knowledge, the influence, the assistance to reach your goal. Surround yourself with people who are already doing what you want to become. Look for books, podcasts or other resources that can teach you about what you want to become. Go to places and do things that the person you want to be would do.
Let me try an example to illustrate the message I am attempting to convey: Let’s say you know how to cook simple meals but want to be able to make fancy Italian style meals with homemade pasta and sauces. Can you simply DECIDE to improve your cooking and use your current skills and knowledge and through sheer determination be able to cook that delicious Italian meal? Of course not! You look outside your “self” – read a cook book, watch a video or go to a friend who is highly skilled in Italian meals and work with them in their kitchen to pick up the skills needed.
If you want to be able to fix your own car, you would have little success with looking inward and acquiring the needed skills. You need outer resources: Podcasts, books, YouTube or a talented car mechanic to study and learn what you need to know.
A journey to “self” improvement may begin by looking inward, but will only be successful when you seek outside influences, assistance and guidance.
What are your “self” improvement goals for 2020? Whatever they may be, go OUT and get the guidance, the information and the support of others to achieve the goal. At Wahner Chiropractic we are pleased to be your resource for knowledge and coaching to develop the skills necessary to enjoy better health and fitness. We are you partner in your “self” improvement journey.
Have a Wonderful, Healthy and Successful New Year!
Sincerely,
Dr. Barry Wahner
Wahner Chiropractic