The last lap

IT’S September, the last lap of 2022, and we’re checking in to see how you’ve been riding out the year.

How has it been meeting your health, fitness, parenting, and relationship goals this year? In these photos, model Cleopatra Whyte shows us how important it is to take the wheels and press on, even when time seems like it’s against us.

It’s not too late, really, and here we share some tips for grabbing the rest of 2022 with both hands.

You can still get that ‘better’ job

If your resolution at the start of the year was to get a better job, don’t lose hope, there’s still time. If COVID has taught us anything, it’s that, even when we’re pushed off the bike, we can always remount. “If you feel trapped in a work life that seems to be heading nowhere, with a paycheque that has not changed in years, and if you get anxiety about going to work in the days, do something about it,” said Atlanta-based mental health counsellor Angela Dacres.

Revisit that vision board

If you’ve been ignoring your vision board, now is the time to look back at it, tweak what needs to be tweaked, and get back on track, Dacres said. “A vision board is a powerful tool that helps you visualise your goals, so now is the time to get going again, even if you’ve been feeling defeated,” she added.

Be positive

You may feel that it’s approaching year end and you haven’t got to do much of what you planned, but recognise and celebrate what you’ve managed to do. “If you need to, place positive, encouraging affirmations all over your house,” said Dacres. “Let these guide you from the moment you wake up until you go to bed and your entire focus will change. Trust the process.”

Believe in yourself

If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will. Whatever your dream is — whether it’s a husband, getting over heartbreak, losing that weight or making friends — believe that they are attainable and take the steps needed to see them through, Dacres said.

Be realistic

If you weren’t exactly realistic on your resolution list or your vision board, a bit of tweaking won’t hurt. Work on the measurable and doable goals, the ones that are realistically achievable, and throw all your energy into them, Dacres said.