By La Tanyua Brown-Thompson
Starting New: A Hopeful Perspective for the New Year
A new year often brings hope, but what happens when it begins with challenges? Instead of feeling overwhelmed, consider a fresh perspective—one that replaces frustration with opportunity and focuses on starting new, not over.
Starting Over vs. Starting New
Starting over implies returning to the past, often accompanied by regret and frustration. However, starting new allows you the opportunity for growth and transformation while embracing your current situation. An opportunity to build while moving forward with the gained wisdom, knowledge and resilience learned from past experiences.
Finding Hope in Uncertainty
In a world filled with uncertainty, every day offers a new chance to reset and reimagine. Challenges can refine, not define, you. Life’s setbacks don’t have to be your end but a steppingstone to something greater. If you shift your mindset from starting over to starting new, it will allow you to see each moment as an opportunity instead of an obstacle.
Steps to Start New
- Reframe Your Mindset: Focus on what you’ve learned and what’s ahead.
- Set Intentional Goals: Identify small, meaningful steps to move towards.
- Practice Gratitude: What are you grateful for now?
- Be Present: Embrace and be fully in the moment.
- Seek Support: Reach out to family, friends, and community because you are not alone.
Embrace a New Chapter
No matter how the year began, you’re not starting over—you’re starting something new. Each challenge prepares you for a future filled with possibilities. Life isn’t about erasing or ignoring the past but building on it with strength and hope.
You are defined not by what you’ve been through but by what you choose to do next. Embrace this new chapter and create a future that reflects your resilience and potential.
Best regards,
La Tanyua Brown-Thompson
President, Board of Directors
NAMI Contra Costa
