This year, I’m rethinking what it means to have a fresh start
Resolutions don't always have to begin on Jan. 1
Happy 2025 to all! Wishing all of you a happy and healthy year ahead.
The time has come for the oft-dreaded New Year’s resolutions. The idea is to reflect on the past year and set goals for the new one.
I’ve made many resolutions, but the majority of them failed miserably. A few years back, I decided to train for a marathon to raise funds for Parkinson’s disease. I think that resolution lasted a resounding two weeks. When my husband, Arman, resolved last January to become a vegetarian to see if it helped control the symptoms of his early-onset Parkinson’s disease, I went along with him — briefly. How about the resolution to eat less sugar? I have no excuses; I just enjoy chocolate too much to end that special relationship.
I don’t like failing, and these unattainable goals made me feel bad about myself. Was it worth it to feel like the entire year ahead would be a bust by mid-January because I couldn’t go without a steak or a chocolate chip cookie? Because of my apparent inability to see a resolution through, I started to think about options.
What if I chose to see every day as a fresh start instead of restricting myself to New Year’s? A year is a long time! Small, daily intentions seemed to be a much better and more sustainable choice for me.
My bedroom windows face east, and every morning, I see the slow and gentle sunrise. I ponder the day ahead as the sun shines its bright and beautiful light through my windows. It reminds me that I get a fresh start every single day of my life. Not just every year, as New Year’s resolutions make it seem, but every day! Wow, this approach was much better than I’d thought.
Here are some questions I began to ask myself:
- What can I improve today?
- How can I be a better version of myself today?
- Can I be a more patient caregiver today?
- Will I take some time for myself today to focus on my needs?
- Can I be a more loving mother and wife today?
As the end of the day approaches, I watch the sun set in the evening sky from the bench that looks out of my front windows. Each night, I see different colors and patterns, reminding me that every day brings something new to our lives, and that includes the opportunity to make a fresh start.
Note: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson’s News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.
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Houri Askari
Jamie joon I enjoyed your article and this year we have Alexa’s wedding which we are looking forward to isee her in her wedding dress . ❤️🙏
Judy Lampton
Hi Jamie and Armand,
Your ideas and new lease on life are very inspiring. After reading this, I am going to start getting to bed earlier every night and wake up at the same time every morning.
I hear you, and I will take it one morning and night at a time, until it becomes a habit, starting with tomorrow.
Thanks again.,
Judy
Angela Sclater
I understand . I have a family member who has been diagnosed 18 months ago with PD. I am trying to understand PD. I am interested in researching possible treatments and that includes the work of Dr Matthew Phillips from NZ. And also low level laser .