5778 has been a year of immense growth for me, both in my personal and professional life. I remember how I felt this time last year… I was anxious about my future in the property world as it was completely new territory for me. I was also only half way through my life transformation journey.
Fast forward 365 days, and I am delighted to say that I have achieved everything I set out to achieve this year. I have had many curve balls thrown at me, but I did not let them de-rail me. Instead, I learned valuable lessons from them and they have shaped me into who I am today.
However, at this time of year, we acknowledge that we are all imperfect, that we can improve our ways and that we must do better with the life we have been given. This is a period for reflection. The High Holy days permit us to acknowledge our fears and failings but, at the same time, offers each one of us the possibility of renewal.
If we were asked to predict the outcome of a year at the beginning, we would likely fall short of approximating any of it accurately. This year, no different from those before it, had its predictable elements that were anticipated when the year began last Rosh Hashanah: the resignation of Zuma; the appointment of new president, the constant shenanigans in the political world and many other such events.
The same can be applied to life’s journeys. At some stage of our lives, we have all been culprits of setting unachievable huge goals. This can often lead to failure. Instead we should set short-term achievable goals. These are goals that don’t overwhelm you and are easily achieved. Big journeys begin with small steps.
However, just as important is ‘why’. Ask yourself daily why you are doing something? Having a purpose and having an answer to that question will go a long way. I can personally say I have tried and tested this method and it works! It is far easier to achieve your goals when you make them realistic and achievable.
We know that the human mind is rewarded on achievement and once you achieve your first set of goals it will automatically enable you to push onto the next one.
We are all worthy of our dreams. If you can dream it and believe it, you can achieve it! Don’t ever let anyone ever tell you that you are not able to do something. It is about commitment, it is about dedication and it is about passion.
So as I look forward to 5779, I am so excited and hopeful of what the year ahead holds for me. I will be setting new personal goals — believing that I can do anything that I put my mind to. I am in control of my own destiny. The future looks bright.
In the year ahead, continue to be strong but also to strengthen one another. Let’s work together to make ‘a sweet new year’ not only a greeting, but a reality for ourselves and the world we share.
I extend to you all my very best wishes for a happy and fulfilling new year. Shana Tova!