Determine to do better in 2018

As we come to the close of the year 2017, we must now look towards the future to see what 2018 will bring.

Even as we give thanks for the year that will soon pass, I want to take the time to implore Barbadians to determine to do better than they have in the past in all spheres of endeavour.
By taking small steps we can reach big goals, and so, once we live to see 2018, there is no reason why we cannot determine to continue on our journey to accomplish those things that we have not yet attained, but which we dream of.

Now we often hear much talk of New Year resolutions, which are often quite hard for most people to keep. However, I do believe that we all have areas we would like to work on, even if we do not actively label them “resolutions”, and thus we must still set plans in motion to achieve our goals.

We can start by paying attention to some key areas: for instance our health – both physical and mental; our finances, our spirituality; our relationships; and of course our skill sets. You can feel free to add to this list, which is not exhaustive.

In the first instance, it is often stated that ‘the health of the people is the wealth of the people’.

And indeed, this slogan should be in the forefront of our minds as we move forward, since we can surely achieve so much more if our physical and mental states are well balanced.
Once we have good health, I do believe that other things will fall into place. So in all our planning for the New Year, we must include activities to boost physical and mental health to the max. Again, starting small is key and there is no use setting plans in place to run a marathon each week, when one knows one can only manage a brisk walk around the block.

Now to the issue of finance. While we should by no means determine to get rich quick, we must acknowledge that “money answereth all things” as the Good Book tells us. And we all know that having enough to pay bills and to jointly enjoy life augurs well for us, as opposed to living from pay- cheque to pay-cheque, or worrying about where the next dollar is coming from. So for 2018, we must certainly determine to save more and spend more wisely.

And for those who have been neglecting those gifts and talents which can ensure an extra dollar, you must stop doubting your capabilities and make a try at setting up that new business or gaining that vital extra skill.

Human beings are created to be spiritual beings, and as such we should not ignore the spiritual side. I do not believe that we should only focus on the physical side of things, as we will all have to give an account of our lives lived here on earth. As such, we must feed our souls, just as much as we feed our bodies. So for those who recognise the need to draw closer to Almighty God, do not hesitate to do so. Remember, the focus must not only be on material gain, as we brought nothing into this world and will surely carry nothing out.

In the natural realm, Barbadians, please do ensure that you feed and nurture those cherished relationships so that they do not die or spoil. Just as plants need to be fed and watered, we must embrace those relationships which are good for us and weed out the ones that do us no good. We must value good relationships with family and friends and ensure that they thrive, so that we have an arm to lean on as we go through life with its many ups and downs.

So as you map out and make plans for 2018, just consider these areas and ensure that the meaningful things in life are not forgotten. Put your best foot forward and determine to do better next year, whatever life throws your way.