By Ashley Ferraro
As the new year approaches, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and contemplating the future. Social media provides a recap of our 2023 photo memories. The half-dreaded, half-anticipated New Year’s resolutions loom above us. What lessons did we learn this year? What do we hope to accomplish next year?
The New Year’s resolution is an age-old tradition that receives both criticism and praise. Some argue that resolutions are unrealistic or set people up for failure by creating high expectations. Others point out that societal pressure and comparison can influence people to set resolutions based on what others are doing rather than their own genuine desires.
Additionally, there can be a tendency for resolutions to be vague or generic, leading to a lack of commitment and follow-through. You might even know from experience that these resolutions tend to become abandoned or forgotten within a few weeks. So, how can we set meaningful resolutions and make the most of the new year?
The first step is to reflect on the past year. Take some time to think about your accomplishments, challenges, and lessons learned. What aspects of your life do you want to improve? What goals do you want to achieve? By understanding where you’ve been, you can better determine where you want to go.
When setting resolutions, it’s essential to be realistic and specific. Vague goals like “lose weight” or “be happier” are difficult to measure and often lead to frustration. Instead, break down your aspirations into smaller, achievable steps. For example, if your goal is to improve your fitness, consider setting a resolution to exercise three times a week or complete a 5K race by a certain date. These specific goals provide clarity and allow you to track your progress.
Another crucial aspect of setting meaningful resolutions is aligning them with your values and passions, and avoiding setting goals based on what peers or influencers say. Ask yourself, “What truly matters to me?” This could be anything from personal growth and career advancement to relationships and community involvement. When your resolutions align with your core values, they become more motivating and feel less like a chore.
However, it’s important to remember that resolutions are not set in stone. Life is unpredictable, and circumstances may change. It’s okay to adjust your goals as needed. Be flexible and open to new possibilities. If a particular resolution no longer resonates with you, don’t be afraid to let it go and replace it with something that feels more authentic.
To stay motivated throughout the year, it can be helpful to create accountability. Share your resolutions with a friend or family member who can support and encourage you. Consider joining a community of like-minded individuals who share similar goals, or seeking out resources related to your aspirations.
Remember, challenges and setbacks will be inevitable. When faced with obstacles, view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Adjust your approach if needed, and remember that progress is not always linear. Although the new year may feel like the perfect time to set your goals, you should always feel empowered to make a positive change.