We are just about to close out 2015! Can you believe it’s that time already? I feel like I was just writing my end of the year blog of 2014! There is something really exciting to me about closing out a year. It’s almost as if we are finishing a good novel. Just like all good stories, each year has its ups and downs; its highs and lows. I had many expectations for 2015. I experienced a lot of amazing things but also had some trying situations that made me question a lot. I am grateful for it all. I think the final days of the year are a really special, important time. It’s a time to reflect, recharge, and renew your intentions. No matter what occurred for you over the past 365 days, I think it’s important to close it out on a high note. This week I want to share with you some great ways to end this year in a positive way, and to prepare you for the amazing year to come!

1. Make a gratitude list. A lot can happen in a year! Take time to sit and think about all that you are grateful for. It can be a slippery slope to focus on the negatives in life, but remember, there is always something to be grateful for! Gratitude shifts our perception, brings us back to love, and reminds us that we have the power to choose our thoughts, no matter what is happening in the outside world.

2. Contemplate the lessons that you learned. Experienced challenges over the past year? We all do. Reframe these challenges to think about what lessons they taught you. Life can be a rocky ride, but it’s really all about what we choose to do with the lessons we learn. Take inventory on the great lessons of the past year, and carry them with you into the new one. Think of it as arming yourself with the right tools for the coming months!

3. Take time to honor and take care of yourself. The holidays are a busy time, you may be feeling like you’re burning the candle from both ends. Use these last few days of the year to pamper and treasure yourself! Fill up your own cup so that you can serve and be the best version of you for 2016!

4. Contemplate the possibilities and get clear on what you want. I love prepping for a new year. For me, a new year feels like a clean slate, filled with infinite opportunity. The best way to take advantage of all that life has to offer is to get clear on what you want. Clarity is so important. Sit in meditation, journal, and listen to what your heart tells you are your truest desires.

5. Trust that everything that has happened and is to happen is for a reason. Your life is a beautiful story with twists and turns have faith that the good and the bad are all part of the story of your life. Lovingly let go of the past and keep that faith for the year to come!

I hope these tips help you as we close out 2015! What are some of your end of the year rituals? Are you setting any intentions for the New Year? Let me know in the comments below!

I wish you all a safe, happy and healthy New Year. I look forward to walking life’s path together with you in 2016.

Love, Michelle