Before every new year you have a chance to sit down and assess how that year went by and what you would like to improve for the upcoming one; however, recent studies show that new year resolutions are a very inefficient method of bringing about change. Most individuals give up within the first three months and revert to past, potentially toxic, patterns.
What can you do this year to make this a wholesome year for yourself?
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When you think about the goals you have set for yourself this semester, acknowledge that you are human and what you hope to accomplish will either take more than a year, or might take up more time than you have. Instead of creating big vague goals, for example, “I will work out more,” aim to narrow down your objects to specific ones that you can perform such as, “I will take the stairs up to my apartment and at my job.” That way you can feel fulfilled with yourself but also have growing space. Photo courtesy of Squarespace
In addition, recent studies show that achieving goals is more likely when you are self- motivated and do not let others know about your goal. It is always better to create an individual goal that does not depend on others, for example, “since my friend is eating sweets again maybe I should too.” Although it is nice to have a friend to support you through your journey, refrain from leaning on them too much. You can have the same goal as your friend but achieve it at individual levels, otherwise you or your friend may lose motivation if one does better than the other, or it can lead to strain in your relationship.
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Be kind to yourself by not forcing too far past your comfort zone. If you set an object that seemed achievable at the time but no longer is within reach, adjust it to better reflect your current circumstance.
As time changes so do you and your conditions. Accepting that you cannot control everything is a much less stressful and prosperous way to work towards your intention. Adjust to your surroundings. Always be faithful to yourself when establishing a goal because treating yourself right is the key to a wholesome, peaceful, and thriving year.
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