The end of a calendar year is typically a time of deep personal reflection for a lot of people.
89.1 WEMU'S Lisa Barry spoke to a local psychologist about the mentally healthiest way to look back but keep moving forward into the New Year.
Ann Arbor executive coach, author, and adjunct professor at the University of Michigan, Dr. Robert Pasick, says the best way to think about the current year ending and how to truly have a "happy" New Year is "just be happy." Make up your mind that, no matter what happens, you will look for the good in every life event and with gratitude and a positive perspective.
In addition to his latest book, "Self-Aware," Dr Pasick created a self-awareness journal to help people stick to their "intention" for the day. He says there are many benefits to writing out your thoughts and goals.
At a time of year when there's a lot of focus on physical exercise, Dr Pasick says it's also important to exercise your brain as well.
He says to achieve the best effect is not to just keep it to yourself but talk to other people about what you've learned.
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— Lisa Barry is the host of All Things Considered on WEMU. You can contact Lisa at 734.487.3363, on Twitter @LisaWEMU, or email her at lbarryma@emich.edu