The other day, I was shopping for a calendar so I could map out my events and online course launches for 2019. As I searched for the perfect one, I imagined myself filling it out, not just with appointments and commitments, but with dreams and visions for the year ahead.

When I got home, I couldn’t wait to get started writing in the pristine white squares. Just as I started to uncap my pen and dive into the planning process, I sensed a presence beside me.

“Let your soul guide you on your path.” It said.

One of my guides had dropped in with an important reminder. I stopped and tuned in to hear the simple truth he had to share. “The year ahead is like a treasure box, waiting to be opened. You can experience these blessings by simply letting the wise little voice within – your souls voice – be your guide.”

It’s easy to get caught up in your head, letting judgement, self criticism, and the dreaded FOMO (fear of missing out) drive you to fill your days with activities that don’t resonate with your soul. But – there’s a simple cure for that! As you plan your future, stop, breathe, and let your intuition guide you.

Here’s a special four-part visualization to help you chart your path for the days ahead.

Sit comfortably with your back straight, hands softly resting on your lap, and feet on the floor. Take a few slow, deep breaths.

Now picture yourself walking along a winding path. There’s a chill in the air and snow on the ground and the trees are silhouetted against the gray winter sky. You can hear water rushing in a nearby stream, swollen by rain and snow. You sense how cold the water is. You walk up to the stream and look into its depths. Images start to present themselves to you, flickering in the clear water. Observe them, and open your mind to receive more. They are previews of the upcoming months.

Continue along the path, noticing that the air is warmer, and the trees are starting to sprout fresh green leaves. As you move forward you see spring flowers blooming and hear birds chirping as they construct their nests. Look into the sky and open your mind to the visions that appear. If there’s something you’d like to experience in the new year, now is the time to invite it in. Imagine your life as you’d like it to be – open yourself to receive love, success, health and happiness.

As you walk, the sun becomes even warmer on your back, and you notice the trees and flowers are in full bloom. You can smell summer in the air – your nose detects freshly cut grass and the smoke of a campfire. You turn a corner and see a blazing fire with people gathered around it. You look at their faces, and it becomes clear that these are the friends and loved ones who will be part of your life in 2019. Some are familiar, but there are others you don’t recognize. Pay close attention to the emotions each person stirs within you – you have the power to choose the people you spend time with.

Your final steps take you through piles of crunchy leaves; the sky above a dazzling blue. The tall trees that line the path are brilliantly colored in shades of red, orange, and yellow. You tune in – and hear words of guidance from the universe and your own inner wisdom. You are grateful to have the help of your guides and your own intuition on your soul journey, and you take note of what you are being told.

Now slowly bring yourself back to the present and take a few minutes to jot down your observations. They will help you live your best life in 2019 – and beyond!

I look forward to bright days ahead, and thank you for being part of the James Van Praagh community. I wish you a New Year filled with love, light and happiness!