“End the year strong.” Who hasn’t heard the phrase? But what if we were to reframe that with, “end the year well.” I say this because as a culture, being strong seems to be of greater value than being well. We’ve been strong all year long, and in this current climate, every day requires some degree of strength to make it through. Strength is built into our DNA. Similarly, wellbeing is our birthright. But are we operating from a place of wellbeing, everyday? Keep in mind, wellbeing does not equate to perfect. Perfect is pure myth. So what does ending the year, well look like? Here are four ways.

Acknowledge your accomplishments

Reflect on where you were, January 1st, 2021, and the intentions and goals you set for the year. Bet you accomplished some or all of them. And even if you did not accomplished all that you intended, you took action and moved the needle forward. That deserves and is worthy of celebration. You did well.

Celebrate your self & accomplishments

Now that you’ve recognized you accomplishments, an actual celebration is in order. Yes. Do something nice for you; be it dinner, a staycation, far-away vacation, a shopping spree, celebrating by yourself or with others, whatever. Let you be the center of your attention, and normalize being the recipient of your praise and appreciation.

Have Fun

Recreation is self-care. Studies show that fun and play can reduce stress, improve self-esteem, increase happy endorphins in the body and so much more. Plus, ’tis the season. Consider gathering safely with your friends and family, at home or outdoors or indoor spaces and enjoy this festive time of year.

Visualize

Once you’ve gotten all the recognition and celebrating out the way, begin to bring 2022 into focus. As you consider your intentions and goals for the new year, think of what you want them to look like, feel like and and actually be like. In Qigong, we have a saying, “energy flows where the mind goes.” Let you mind whisk you away to 2022, and even visualize yourself celebrating those achievements at the end of 2022, then watch some or all of them come true.

So let’s aim for ending the year WELL. We are worthy of it.