Have you started anything new this New Year?

2025年1月7日 2025年1月7日村上法子

村上法子

The new year has arrived—have you made any New Year’s resolutions? Have you already started working on them, or have you found yourself slipping into old habits, struggling to get started, or perhaps already giving up after just a few days?

People often choose times like New Year’s, Easter, birthdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, the Chinese New Year, or Ramadan to begin something new. Why? Because these occasions bring a psychological sense of "reset." These milestones create a special atmosphere, different from the ordinary flow of days, and that can provide motivation to start something new.

In particular, the end of the year and the beginning of the new one align perfectly with a time to reflect on the past and set plans for the future. Many people use this period, right after Thanksgiving or Christmas, to reevaluate their lives and make new commitments.

But if you feel like the year has already begun, yet you haven’t been able to start, or if you think, "I’ve already given up," don’t worry!
Starting something on a special occasion is wonderful, but what if any moment could be the right one for you? Perhaps "now" or "today" is your perfect timing. That’s what the Japanese phrase “Nichinichikorekojitsu” (Every day is a good day) teaches us.

If you ever feel that a moment truly resonates with you, and you think, "This is it," cherish that feeling. Embrace that moment as your special timing, and consider it the start of something new.

The truth is, what’s special isn’t limited to New Year’s. Every single day can be your “good day.”
Any day can be the start of something new. Taking even a small step forward doesn’t have to wait for special occasion. You can do it at your own pace, without rushing.

Doesn’t this kind of mindset feel encouraging? Every day is fresh and special.

"Every day is a new beginning."
"Take it one day at a time."
"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift."
"Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s part of success."
"Make every day count."

I wish you all health and happiness.
Happy 2025!

If there's anything you'd like to talk about or think through together, feel free to reach out!