Potential, Possibilities, and the Excitement of New Beginnings
This time of year often brings potential, possibilities, and the excitement of new beginnings. We can close the chapter of the previous year and start anew with a fresh page. There’s something quite comforting about that.
In his book To Bless the Space Between Us, John O’Donohue describes beginnings as “an invitation to open towards the gifts and growth that are stored up for us.” Yet, with every beginning comes the daunting reality of the unknown. Beginnings can feel scary. Leaving the comfort of the known—our familiar habits, routines, and comforts—can be unsettling. Fear can set in. The stakes can feel high. But what’s the alternative? The ongoing struggle? The sadness? Or perhaps the stress that comes from being unable to leave what you might have outgrown?
To resist a beginning, O’Donohue suggests, is to neglect the potential lying dormant within us. Each new start offers a chance to step into a version of ourselves we haven’t yet met, to embrace a future not yet written.
But how do we recognize when it’s time to leave the old and embrace a new beginning? O’Donohue reminds us that “part of the art of living wisely is to learn to recognize and attend to such profound openings in one’s life.” By cultivating intentional presence and staying attuned to the moment, presence becomes our compass in navigating beginnings. Recognizing these moments requires awareness, a readiness to hear the subtle knock of opportunity. Through presence, we gain clarity on our wants and desires and attune ourselves to the subtle cues that can guide our journey.
Often, once we commit to moving forward, things begin to align, sometimes in ways we don’t immediately understand. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe famously wrote, “At the moment of commitment the entire universe conspires to assist you.” - A powerful reminder that with clarity and commitment we can set transformative forces into motion.
New beginnings aren’t just opportunities for change; they are invitations to step forth with openness and intention. They’re a call to listen deeply, commit fully, and trust that the path will reveal itself as we move forward step by step. By embracing both the excitement and the uncertainty of the unknown, we can create space for transformation and the unfolding of our greatest potential.
Insights
“Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”
— Maria Robinson
“The only two questions, at any moment of choice in life, are what the price is, and whether or not it’s worth paying.” There are always trade-offs. Focus on the things that matter.
— Oliver Burkeman in Meditations for Mortals
— John O’Donohue in To Bless the Space Between Us
Wishing you a year filled with presence, courage, and new beginnings.