Today I feel compelled to share with you a very profound concept that I learned – ‘It takes a year’. This phrase is wisdom handed down through the ages, a compass to guide us in navigating our life’s journey.

When retiring from a job we’ve held for a very long period, a significant life transition takes place. We lose the routine, the community, the shared conversations and a sense of external validation. Experts suggest that it takes approximately a year to adjust to this new normal.

Similarly, when experiencing a significant loss, such as the demise of a loved one, it is recommended that we allow ourselves a year to grieve, settle in, and adjust to that painful reality.

A personal instance readied me for the wisdom of this insight. A year ago, my mother was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. The first year was an incessant struggle trying to understand and manage her needs. However, over the course of the year, I’ve learned to master the responsibilities of a caregiver.

As we embark on a new year, many of us are setting resolutions, aiming for personal betterment and growth. In the past, I’ve always advised everyone to take small steps towards their goals. While this advice still stands, I request you to add a new perspective to it – give yourself a year to reach the fruition of your goals.

Starting a new fitness routine? Planning to learn a new instrument? Envisioning to climb the corporate ladder? Whatever your goal is, remind yourself that mastery takes time. It takes a year to learn, understand, and perfect something new.

Our society is built on the foundation of instant gratification. However, when it doesn’t come our way, we feel upset and defeated. Therefore, when setting your New Year’s resolutions, take baby steps towards realizing them and give yourself a timeline of a year.

In the beginning, it will be difficult and could be extremely emotional, even frustrating, but with commitment and perseverance, you will see progress. Allow yourself room to learn, grow, and even fail once in a while. After a year, you’ll be able to look back, celebrate your progress, and appreciate how far you’ve come.

As you journey through this new year, remember – achievement isn’t about instant success, but about continuous progress. Stay committed, keep the faith, and most importantly, be patient with yourself.

Thank you for your time, and may this year be your best one yet!