How many people do you know set and keep resolutions for the New Year? New Year’s resolutions have been around for a very long time and some people take these things seriously. Some try for a while towards their goals and give up. While many others don’t plan for resolutions knowing that they don’t want the pressure, or won’t follow through on their goals anyway.
Some examples of typical New Year’s resolutions:
- Exercise more
- Lose weight
- Get organized
- Learn a new skill or hobby
- Live life to the fullest
- Save more money / spend less money
- Quit smoking
- Spend more time with family and friends
- Travel more
- Read/write more
- More self-care / alone time
- Working on yourself / healing
Typically speaking, New Year’s resolutions are helpful and can inspire people to do better and become better versions of themselves. Another positive aspect is that it’s a very typical time for people to work on themselves and so many others will be keeping up with their resolutions as well. Sometimes, accountability groups can be formed with others who have similar or the same goals, which can be motivating and inspiring.
The main downside of New Year’s resolutions is that it can add a lot of pressure to people, as they can make very unrealistic expectations of themselves and it can be overwhelming or hard to maintain. For some, it can be easy to get into the routine for a while, but if or when they fall off, it can be very disheartening and frustrating.
With that being said, I think it’s wise to set “SMART” goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound to set yourself up better for success within your resolutions. Something else that may be helpful is to not be hard on yourself if you slip up or miss a day, it’s important to speak kindly to yourself along the process of change.
As a therapist, I find that not long after the New Year I start to receive more interest in people wanting to work with me. I believe it has something to do with New Year’s resolutions and the spirit of becoming a better version of themselves in the new year. While I support this idea, I feel it’s important to note that it doesn’t need to be a New Year to set goals and resolutions for yourself. I believe that we can always keep growing, healing and expanding every single day that we’re alive. It’s never too late to become the version of yourself you’ve always wanted to be!
If you’re looking to work on your mental health and wellness this year, maybe psychotherapy is just what you need. I specialize in EMDR and trauma healing and would love to support you on your healing journey.