Everyone is familiar with the expression **”new beginnings.”** However, what does it *really* mean? Can we measure it, hold it in our hands, or even see it? As you might imagine, it is not quite as simple as it seems. I do not claim to have the answers to all these questions, but I would like to share a few thoughts with you, my dear readers.
**Let’s start with some simple definitions:**
**New** (Nouveau): That which is unusual, or that which was previously unknown; OR
That which comes after someone or something of the same kind—coming to replace, succeed, or be added to it.
**Beginning** (Départ): The act of leaving; the moment one sets off; OR
The commencement of a planned undertaking, an action, or an activity; a start.
**(Thanks for that brief French lesson!)** Now, to dissect the meaning of this expression, there are several approaches we can take. A “new beginning” can carry multiple meanings and take **various forms.** For instance, it might be a situation involving an element of the *unknown* and of *spontaneity*—a *commencement.* We might also view it as a *transition* or a *series of events* that lead to a *renewal*—that spark a *takeoff.* We could dwell on this for hours, for as we know, semantics is a rather complex “science.”
In my view, a new beginning represents a second chance. It is the realization—or rather, the *development*—of a new **project** or a new **idea.** As you may have noticed, beginnings are often intertwined with endings.
“To strive for completion is to return to one’s starting point.” – Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette
Sometimes, an ending is merely a necessary waypoint on the road to our destiny. Farewells are not always the happiest of occasions, but they represent a necessary rite of passage for reaching new heights and catching a glimpse of new horizons.
“All changes, even the most longed-for ones, have their melancholy.” – Anatole France
New beginnings are often anxiety-inducing, or even frightening. They can mean having to start over from scratch. However, they also bring with them good news. They represent an opportunity to recenter ourselves, to recharge, and to tune in to our surroundings (as well as to ourselves). New beginnings offer a chance to reorient and to grow.
“The world hates change, yet it is the only thing that has ever brought it progress.” – Charles F. Kettering
The path leading to change—or following it—is not always free of pitfalls. The work has only just begun! I firmly believe that it is crucial to listen to one’s intuition. One must forge ahead, though not without heeding the perils that lie in wait. Prudence is called for, but only in moderation! After all, we must not retreat into our old, comfortable habits if we truly wish to bring about the change in question. Listening to yourself and trusting yourself are invaluable assets when it comes to new beginnings. Without allowing yourself to be paralyzed by fear, you should view it as a normal response to the upheavals the future holds in store:
“He who knows no fear is not normal; “It has nothing to do with courage.” – Jean-Paul Sartre
Be strong and self-assured. Questioning things is allowed, but it must not cloud your mind. Nothing good ever comes from that notorious “overthinking”! Distractions will be tempting, but it is important to stay focused. As the old adage goes: “It is better to have remorse than regrets.”
Life is profoundly subjective. It is a reflection of our own perceptions and our own experiences. We must not forget that the same applies to every person you encounter—whether closely or from a distance. It is important to choose yourself; however, the game isn’t worth the candle if doing so comes at the expense of those who stand by you and support you. To get through all manner of trials, we need a village (no matter how small it may be!).
So, here is my advice: hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. This represents the calculated risks we sometimes have to take in life. Life is far too short to be unhappy at every moment. We must make the most of every single second.
