Things to Focus on in The New Year

HAPPY FRIDAY and almost New Year's!

2016 wasn't a spectacular or special year in any way, really. No huge accomplishments or life changes or anything like that, but it was a good year! Celebrated 10 years of marriage, went on some fun trips, did a Crossfit competition, and got a deadlift PR, so can't complain. ;)

I don't have any crazy goals or anything for this coming year, but I've always like odd numbered years, so I think 2017 is going to be great!

While I don't really do resolutions, I'd thought I'd share a few things that I think we could all benefit from striving for this coming year:

Don't compare yourself or your life to others. Comparison only steals our joy. No matter how "perfect" someone may appear, every single person has their own perceived flaws and insecurities. They will always be there no matter how fit or in shape or lean you get. Instead, choose to be thankful and embrace who YOU are and what makes YOU unique and special.

Remember your worth is not in your body. Take care of it, but don't idolize it. Don't let the mirror or the scale determine your happiness.

Don't judge what others do with their eating and training and don't worry about what others think of yours . Do yo own thang! Trying to copy someone else or live for the approval of others is no way to live. Be confident. Be you.

Exercise to get stronger, to have more energy, and to feel better, NOT as punishment or just to burn off what you eat. Your mindset when it comes to working out is everything. Do something you enjoy first and foremost, and don't forget what a gift it is to be able to move your body.

Don't be afraid to challenge yourself and try new things, even if you're not good at them at first. If I never tried new things or was afraid of looking stupid, there would be a lot of things I wouldn't be able to do today and experiences that I wouldn't have.

Show grace and kindness to everyone, because you never know what someone is going through. Smile at a stranger, compliment others, show patience and grace to those who are rude to you, offer a listening ear to someone, even if it's an inconvenience to you, and lend a helping hand whenever it's needed.

Be thankful and content with what you have while still striving to be the best you can be. Gratitude TRULY is the key to a joy-filled life. Don't take for granted the simply things in life-I'm telling you, it's life changing.

Remember what's going to be most important on your deathbed. It won't be your workouts, your diet, or your abs, I guarantee you that. It will be your relationship with God and people and memories made with friends and family. So don't skip going out for ice cream with your family or eating a slice of cake at a birthday party because you're too worried about your abs. There's so much more to life.

Hope you all have a great New Year!