12/21/2024
A Better Approach to New Year's Resolutions: A clear vision of what you want to do.
"RESOLUTIONS" are everywhere. While it is logical at the end of the year to look back and forward, a “take stock of my life” moment, the real gift is in the ability to look at what you are doing and consciously decide what is working and what you might like to do differently.
Goals such as “lose weight,” “leave this crazy job,” “stop fighting with (family member)” are likely the same goals as last year, and if you are like many, these will again frustrate you by going nowhere. Why? For one thing, these goals are defined negatively, and are not connected to actions. A BETTER APPROACH might be recognizing what it is you really want and stating those as goals: “Commit to develop healthier eating habits by…,” “Understand what is and isn’t working for me and change my approach to work (in this job or the next),” “Improve my communication with (family member) by changing how I approach them/react to them.” This acknowledges that you are responsible for your choices and these will shape your future success.
STRENGTH BASED, CONSCIOUS CHANGE TO MAKE THINGS BETTER
First, think of the things you did well this past year, recognizing that you have strengths and capabilities that you can tap into. What challenges did you face? How did you overcome them? How can you apply these strengths to other specific challenges?
Forget about perfection: Develop an approach, try it, evaluate it, refine it, try again.
Recognize that you can only change YOU - your reactions, your choices, your approach. But also recognize that changing what you do will change the patterns around you!
We are all part of patterns of how we relate to others, share responsibilities with others, and communicate with others. If a pattern is not working for you, it can be changed.
Make this year the year in which you nurture a clear vision of who you are and what you want to do. If you are stuck in a cycle or pattern that is not serving you well, recognize it. If you need help, ask for it. Wishing you and those you love a healthy, positive and peaceful 2025.
