Grief in a new year is never easy. Sometimes it’s hard to look forward when everything you want lies in the past. Looking ahead to a “fresh start,” a “new and better you” or setting new goals can be overwhelming as you’re trying to figure out how to make it through a day.
Whether your loved one(s) died in 2022 or years/decades ago, when you are grieving; a New Year does not come without you thinking of and missing them.
It’s normal to (still) feel strong emotions. So, let’s all take a collective breath, honor our feelings and give ourselves a “High 5” (5 tips) for heading into 2023.
- Focus on self-compassion instead of self-improvement.
- Create new mantras this year – i.e. maybe something like, “this is hard and I’m doing my best.”
- Know you are not leaving your loved ones behind – you are bringing them with you a new way; reflect on ways you carry your loved ones with you.
- Realize that grief takes work; that some calendar days will be harder than others – and that some days you’ll need to take a break from this work.
- Practice self-care; it’s important to take care of you!
While this new year will hold pain and sadness; it will also hold sweet new moments, laughter and joy.
You are not alone on your grief journey. I’m here to support you as needed.
Hugs,
Susan
