2017’s my year to…not have a New Years Resolution! I don’t know about you but I have mixed feelings about New Year’s Resolutions. On one hand, by setting a goal you increase your chances of success. On the other hand, only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s Resolution. Why not just start the year with a fresh start and live life to the fullest? Or how about a general resolution to work hard, play hard, and practice self care regularly?
If you’re bound and determined to line up a resolution for 2017 then I advise you to set one clear and achievable goal and anticipate the limits of your will power. There’s a very good chance you’ll fall off your horse (for no other reason other than you’re human) and when it happens, shake it off and get back that horse the very next day. Life happens, things change, and critical self judgement often sets in when we don’t end up with the result we had intended to achieve. Don’t let the bumps in the road defeat you. Expect them, accept them, and power forward. Be realistic and don’t expect perfection.
If your resolution is adding too much pressure and making you miserable, weigh up the importance of the resolution and consider how it’s serving you. Is it making your life better or more difficult? How would you feel if you were able to let go of the resolution? Would it make room for more pleasant things in your life such as time with family and friends, self care, a musical instrument you’ve been wanting to pick up, or a hobby you’ve been wanting to return to? What would be the healthy thing to do? After all, the resolution is meant to serve you, and only you. If it’s not working, then you have the power to change that. This is not to admit defeat, but to know yourself, respect yourself, and be brave enough to make change.
Wishing you a gentle journey and an exceptional 2017!
Jen