Have you ever gotten a glass and filled it with water from a pitcher?  Once the glass got full, did you continue pouring the water?  Probably not.  But if you did continue pouring the water, the water would begin to overflow and spill over onto the floor.  Nothing more can be contained in that glass unless something is poured out.  Going into the new year, we typically expect new things to happen—new opportunities, new accomplishments, new friendships, and new goals.  As I began to think about what I’d like to accomplish and experience in 2018, it became clear that I needed to clear my plate in order to make room for those new things.

Many times, we can’t move forward and embrace the next thing until we make space for it.  We’ll need mental space and capacity to think through a plan to accomplish the new vision.  We will also need energy to work towards it happening.  We’ll need time freed up to work the plan and evaluate our goals.  We may even need physical space for some new project, supplies, new clothes or inventory.  We cannot expect to fully embrace the “new thing” if we haven’t acquired the needed room/space for it.  As you plan your 2018 and prepare to move forward, consider your habits, your schedule, your current “space” and see if you need to cut back, clear the plate, throw out, walk away, or do something else.

For me, that simply means, I need to evaluate my activities, volunteer commitments, current projects and see what is ‘dead weight’ and begin clearing my plate.  It may be a slow process, but it will be beneficial in taking hold of what’s necessary in 2018.

Consider these questions to determine if you’re truly ready to embrace 2018:

• Are you involved in activities that are draining you of energy?
• Are you holding onto to relationships that do not benefit you?
• Are you at capacity with no room to add anything else?
• Does your vision for 2018 have “space” in your life?
• Are you willing to make the time, energy, and space commitment to walk in your vision?  How will you do this?

Now is the time to step back and evaluate so you can hit the ground with full force!  Make the changes you need today so you can enjoy a more fulfilling life—one that’s fully aligned with your destiny.  Embrace taking a step back in order to take a step forward.  Don’t be afraid to clear your plate!

~Coletta Jones Patterson

Coletta is an author, life coach, business executive and weekly blogger.  Connect with Coletta at info@moveu4ward.com.