Reflections and Resolutions for the New Year
DL Local Comment
By Aryan Debnath - Age 16
As another year draws to a close, we prepare to welcome 2026 with renewed hope and anticipation. The past year has been marked by extraordinary advancements in science, technology, and global connectivity, yet it has also brought significant geopolitical turbulence and uncertainty. In the midst of these contrasting realities, a recurring question continues to surface: despite all our progress and material success, why do so many of us still struggle to find lasting peace and happiness? We come into this world with a natural desire to be happy. However, as life unfolds, we often find ourselves chasing happiness in ways that leave us unfulfilled. This realisation has shaped my first resolution for the new year: to consciously embrace happiness. I want to prioritise the activities and choices that genuinely bring joy and contentment. Being different has sometimes meant that people see me differently, and in the past, this deeply affected me. But I now understand that happiness is an inner practice. Even when circumstances are not ideal, I will work on remaining centred. Often, we contribute to our own unhappiness and then assign blame elsewhere. By cultivating happiness from within, we can transform both our inner world and the world around us. My second resolution is to cultivate stronger focus. Just as the body requires physical exercise to stay strong, the mind needs consistent training to remain disciplined and healthy. I hope to achieve this through meditation, mindful breathing, and paying close attention to even the smallest daily tasks. By sharpening my focus on simple routines, I believe I can gradually build the mental strength needed to handle more complex and demanding responsibilities. A focused mind is a calm mind, and a calm mind can navigate challenges with clarity. My third resolution is to maintain a healthy diet—both physically and emotionally. What we consume shapes who we become. I plan to follow a balanced, nutritious diet and avoid gluten, as it often triggers anxiety for me. Equally important is being selective about the information I consume—what I read, watch, or listen to. Emotional well-being depends greatly on the quality of our mental “diet.” Because I am autistic, I choose my resolutions with thoughtful care. Yet I believe these goals—seeking happiness, focus, and mindful nourishment—are universal aspirations that can guide anyone toward a more meaningful and fulfilling 2026. Wishing everyone a peaceful, healthy, and truly happy New Year. May 2026 bring joy to all. www.dartfordbusinessdirectory.co.uk | www.dartfordliving.live
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