On New Year’s Eve around midnight, we all make New Year Resolutions that are about change, progress, and success. All too often though, these intentions can become a burden rather than a motivator and stress wins out in the end.
This year, let’s make these New Year Resolutions feasible and soul-filling. Just by keeping your mental health top of mind, you can make sure your physical well-being will benefit as well with these simple steps.
Remember: Resolutions Aren’t a Chore
Set Realistic, Achievable Goals
Begin small and focus on attainable objectives. Reduce bigger goals into incremental ones. These small wins can give you confidence and help you feel accomplished without straining yourself too much.
Focus on Self-Care
Don’t pile more on your to-do list; take care of yourself. It may be taking time to rest, doing a hobby or practicing mindfulness. Self-care is not an over-indulgence, it’s an essential practice for good mental health.
Be Kind to Yourself
New Year Resolutions aren’t a list to be completed on a rigid schedule. Give yourself grace if things don’t work out. And don’t give up. You can always try again.
Make Your Goals Enjoyable
If it’s exercise or committing time to read a book every month, make sure the objective is enjoyable and a good fit for you. You will not accomplish something you hate (NOR SHOULD YOU).
Incorporate Flexibility
Life happens, so allow yourself to be flexible. If you discover a goal no longer works for you, then change it or even drop it. Flexibility eases stress and keeps your goals aligned with what is most helpful for you.
Go for Mind Improvement, Not Mastery
Rather than trying to be the best, make intentions for improvement. Whether that is being more positive in your thoughts, dealing with stress, or being grateful—get focused on the journey, not the destination.
Celebrate Progress
Give yourself a break for the little wins along the way. The feeling of progress keeps you inspired and reinforces healthy habits that aid your psychological well-being.
Remember: Resolutions Are FOR YOU
When you are setting New Year Resolutions this year, don’t forget that they are here to bring you growth and joy regarding what is most important in your life. This might involve saying “no” more often to activities or tasks that sap your energy or allowing space for deep connection with others.
Remember too, that mental health resolutions aren’t about trying to get rid of stress and pain—they’re about finding ways to cope and survive in the face of it. If old patterns aren’t working, don’t feel defeated—see it as an opportunity to try new, healthy approaches to those tough times.
And most importantly, let yourself enjoy the process. Mental health resolutions should make you feel better, not more stressed. If you orient your intentions in a way that is compassionate and geared towards self-improvement, then you are destined to be successful, not just this year but for a healthier, more balanced life in general.
Therapy can be a pivotal tool in determining the right path within it comes to reformation. Our counselors can be there for you as you navigate your way into those healthy and happy New Year Resolutions. Book an appointment with GHCS today!