Season’s Greetings

As 2022 draws to a close, before you set new goals for next year, be sure to take some time to reflect and savour all that you have achieved, the progress you have made and the impact you have had.

“I don’t have time for that“, I hear you say.

Here’s why you should find time…

I don’t know about you, but I seem to have an infinite To Do List! It doesn’t matter how many tasks I cross off, there always seems to be even more things to add to it.

And at some level I find this motivating – why is that?

The truth is, I am being driven by my addiction to dopamine, otherwise known as the Molecule of More (the title of a great book, by the way, by Daniel Z Lieberman, MD and Michael E Long).

It doesn’t matter how much I have, I want more, as dopamine feels really good.

Indeed, our bodies experience dopamine when we are seeking a reward (like achieving a goal or crossing something off the To Do List).

And whilst dopamine feels good, and has a purpose, it is also exhausting as it drives you to continually set new goals and take more action, with insufficient time to rest, digest and recuperate.

If this sounds familiar it’s time to slow down…

As with anything in life, it’s all about balance, and learning to moderate your dopamine levels is incredibly important for optimal health and wellbeing.

So what can you do?

Learn to savour.

Create a habit of reflection, and celebration, before moving on to the next task or goal. Regularly PAUSE, and do more than just cross something off your list. Reflect on:

• what you did
• how far you have come
• the impact you have had on yourself, others and your community, and

 CELEBRATE!

This will release different neurochemicals, such as serotonin and oxytocin, that are equally pleasant, but less exhausting, giving your mind and body an opportunity to rest and rejuvenate.

Use the time over the Christmas period to reflect, rest and reset. I have provided a simple template to do this – please share it with others and celebrate together.

ENJOY!