Here we go again with all the sayings…
“New Year, New Me!”
“This is the year that I…”
Then by February, all those hopes and dreams are…. gone. The resolutions have morphed from positive hopeful goals to sources of disappointment and frustration. With that being said, the best type of New Year resolutions to make are not for huge transformations, but small sustainable changes.
Why Small Changes Make Big Differences
It’s tempting to aim big with resolutions, but the truth is, small, incremental changes are more manageable and more likely to stick. Think about it: When you focus on making one small change at a time, you can fully dedicate your full effort and attention to making that change last. Over time, these small changes build on one another, leading to significant transformations without the overwhelming pressure.
Setting Realistic Goals
Instead of vowing to hit the gym every single day, why not aim to incorporate more physical activity into your week in enjoyable ways? Or, instead of a drastic diet overhaul, try introducing healthier food choices one meal at a time. These are not only realistic goals, but are also less overwhelming. It also allows for troubleshooting any hiccups that come up.
Celebrate Every Victory
One of the reasons New Year’s resolutions often lead to disappointment is the lack of recognition for progress made. It’s important to celebrate every small accomplishment along the way. Did you choose to park your car far from the front of the supermarket to walk further? That’s a win. Opted for a side salad over fries? Another win! Acknowledging these victories keeps your motivation up and reinforces your commitment to change.
The Ripple Effect of Small Changes
The beauty of small changes is that they tend to have a ripple effect. Once you start seeing the positive results from one change, it motivates you to make more. Suddenly, you find yourself leading a healthier and happier lifestyle, not because of one massive resolution, but because of several smaller, achievable changes.
Creating a Sustainable New Year
So, this year, let’s not fall into the trap of “New Year, New Me” disasters. Those usually are filled with unreachable goals and inevitable disappointments. Besides, you don’t want a “new” you. You want an improved version of yourself! Instead, focus on small, sustainable, realistic changes that improve our lives bit by bit. Don’t get discouraged by a slip here and there. It’s about changes over longer and longer periods of time, not perfection.