It’s taken me a longer time then usual to write the “Reflections” blog, I’ve been trying to suss out a resolution, and there’s always heaps of things that people suggest, but to be honest, I don’t have any.

To have a resolution is sort of like having a regret, like “unfinished business” or getting over a fear of some sort, or lack of motivation. I don’t have that – anymore.

I used to resolve to get healthier, which always meant working out heaps more, but then I’d get bored, and that resolution would be out the window by February. I’ve come to the conclusion that getting healthy doesn’t necessarily apply to only working out and eating properly. Being a “healthy” individual, means your mindful of what you put into your body and what you want to get out of it.

Instead of working hard and rewarding yourself with junk, think of your body as something you cherish i.e. – like a car you’ve always wanted, or that diamond ring on your finger, or your fav piece of electronic equipment…. now think of smothering that in junkfood. Sort of a ridiculous visual hey? Instead reward yourself with a new fun outfit, or something that you’ve worked hard for. i.e. – a vacation, a day trip, or a massage or something that will allow your body to feel pampered and proud.

Another resolution I often hear is people want to stop working so hard and take more time to enjoy life. That’s paramount. There are a LOT of unhappy folks out there. I know everyone thinks it’s because they don’t have time to enjoy their lives or do the things they want to do, because ultimately they’re afraid of breaking their routine. Let’s face it, if you REALLY want something, you’ll find time. I work on a 60-70hr work week on most occasions and I still schedule in the things I ABSOLUTELY want to do. If you have “the will” you’ll find the way.

Loose the fear, and you’ll loose the depression. Your mind is telling you that it needs to grow, it’s bored. When you’re a young adult you’re in a constant state of growth and learning. So very rarely does your mind go stagnant. I solemnly promise, if you take 1 day a week to try something new out, and break out of your “usual” routine you’ll feel like you’re enjoying yourself more. Take one day to yourself, and for a couple hours just do something you’ve always wanted to do or try, but either never had time, or no one would go with you, or you felt stupid asking someone to go with you. Don’t be shy to try something alone either. If it’s something you enjoy, you’ll meet other like-minded people and before you know it you won’t be alone! Just get out there.

If you still need a resolution – resolve to stay positive!
There’s an amazing story about a woman diagnosed with terminal cancer, and she’s been the inspiration
for an entire town to “Pay if Forward”. Even though she’s not sure how much time she has left, she’s making the most of everyday, and inspiring others to live their best lives while they can. To read more click on: Dying Woman Inspires Others

I know it’s tough to stay positive ALL the time, but if you find yourself in that downward spiral, ask yourself why you think these things are happening? I can almost guarantee that every time a copious amount of unplanned events transpired I had to figure out what the route of the problem was and why I was being pushed in another direction. Sometimes when you put a request “out there” for a change or something different in life, it won’t necessarily deliver what “exactly” you’re asking for, however it will certainly give you opportunities to meet the right people that can assist you in your request. Try it out. Seriously just for fun… I promise it’ll be creepily spot on, and you’ll start to question more and more. Finding the answers is the fun part.

Case in Point: if that dying woman wishes to live, but her body can’t physically handle it, she’ll live on in the minds of others by inspiring a town to “Pay it Forward”.

One of my favorite quotes goes like this:
” Do what makes you happy.
Be with who makes you smile.
Laugh as much as you breathe.
Love as long as you live. ”

I know there are many different situations that seem impossible to get out of, but you can. You just have to have the love, courage and conviction that if it’s what you really want, you can’t let anything stand in your way.

Happy 2011, hope to see you at 1two3 in Broady, or if not drop us a line on Twitter @1wo3dining or FACEBOOK Justine OneTwoThree Bar