The beginning of a new year is a time to reflect and plan. A time to think how we might take on new goals, ambitions, and resolutions — to refine and achieve. 

One passage that I revisit each year is by John Watrous Beckwith (1831-1890) published in 1885:

Plant a thought and reap a word;
plant a word and reap an action;
plant an action and reap a habit;
plant a habit and reap a character;
plant a character and reap a destiny.

You may have heard this statement before in different iterations, but the over-arching themes of self-awareness and the sequential structure usually remain constant.

I have been drawn to this statement for multiple reasons, but most importantly, the metaphor that our thoughts are like seeds which may grow if the conditions to flourish are present. As we ring in the new year, I reflect upon how our habits are one of the key conditions for a thought to become embedded into our character and our future. Intentional habit forming is a key stage that links our aspirational thoughts to our destiny.

Wishing you a fresh start to the new year with renewed energy. May 2023 bring you happiness, health, and the fulfillment of your hopes and goals.