The definition of resolution is, “a firm decision to do or not to do something.” All the typical resolutions you hear in a new year could be to lose weight, eat healthier, or save money. These resolutions have high expectations, where setting goals have a better chance of getting an end result. For me, I have always wanted to get to the gym and work on my body. Yes, I want to lose weight, but I also want to feel good in my body for once.
A goal I am setting for myself each week is to go to the gym at least once. If I manage to go once, I can try to go twice. I am accomplishing my goal of going to the gym, not a goal of losing weight. Another goal of mine is to practice checking in on myself. I got myself a daily guided journal to fill out each night, so my goal is to do just that. This journal takes a look at my day and helps reframe any anxious thoughts I’ve had, any accomplishments I’ve made, and a simple self-care section that asks if I got fresh air, drank water, or slept well.
Although these are just two small goals I have set for myself this year, they will have a greater impact and end result. I used to have the mindset that if I go to the gym just once I would lose weight immediately, but I’ve taken the time to step back and realize that I need to put the effort into going to the gym weekly in order to lose weight. Writing down my thoughts each night may help ease my anxiety about what the next day would bring. Setting small goals could easily change the mindset of reaching a better end result rather than a huge resolution that you have high expectations for.