My word for 2024 is Soulful.
What exactly does that mean for me as I go through this year? What does living a soulful life actually involve?
Below, I’ve come up with 10 ways I want to cultivate a more soulful year, connecting with my innermost self, finding meaning, and living in alignment with my true purpose.
- Connect with My Inner Self
This year I will take more time for introspection and reflection. I will listen to my inner voice and cultivate a deeper understanding of my thoughts, emotions, and desires. I will do this by sitting in stillness and journalling too. - Practice Self-Compassion
I’m going to be more gentle and kind to myself. I will embrace my imperfections and treat myself with the same love and compassion I would offer to a friend. I’m also going to say yes when I want to do something, and no when I don’t. No people-pleasing. - Follow My Passions
I am going to focus on the activities, hobbies, and interests that bring me joy and fulfilment. I am going to make time for these passions in my life, as they nourish my soul and ignite my sense of purpose. These interests include spending time with my partner having new experiences together, reading more, travelling, studying and learning new healing practices. - Cultivate Mindfulness
I will continue to practice mindfulness to become fully present in the moment. I continue to pay attention to my experiences without judgment, and savour the beauty and richness of each moment. - Nurture Meaningful Relationships
I will only surround myself with supportive and uplifting people who inspire me to be my best self. I want to cultivate deep, meaningful connections based on authenticity, trust, and mutual respect. I choose to distance myself from people who are toxic or whose energy and presence does not serve me well. - Serve Others
This year I really want to find ways to contribute to the well-being of others and the world around me. I will do this through my healing practice and offering help to those who need it. - Live in Alignment with My Values
I want to live in alignment with my values which create a sense of integrity and authenticity that nourishes my soul. This is really important to me. I do not want to betray myself this year. - Spend Time in Nature
I really want to immerse myself in the beauty of the natural world. Whether it’s taking a walk in Karura Forest, watching the sunset from our balcony in Nairobi, or tending to our beautiful garden in Nanyuki, I know that connecting with nature will rejuvenate the soul and will continue to provide me with a sense of awe and wonder. - Cultivate Gratitude
I am continuing to cultivate an attitude of gratitude by regularly expressing appreciation for the blessings in my life. I have so much to be thankful for. I choose to focus on the abundance that surrounds me, rather than dwelling on scarcity or lack. - Embrace Spiritual Practices
I am really ramping up the spiritual practices that resonate with me, such as mindfulness and meditation and yoga and dance. These practices help me connect with something greater than myself and deepen my sense of inner peace and purpose.
What practices are you integrating into your daily life to nurture your soul, cultivate meaning and fulfilment and live with greater a authenticity and purpose?