Resolutions with Strategy

Every end of the year we are faced with the daunting question…what are your New Year Resolutions? Ugh…don’t you just hate it! It’s something about that word RESOLUTION that seems so full of unreasonable and self sabotaging fantasies. Like…I’m gonna lose 75 lbs, I’m going change my career, I’m gonna pick up a few exciting hobbies and socialize every chance I get! Yeah right…not gonna HAPPEN…let’s just be REAL!

Most times we put these RESOLUTIONS into the universe only to fail, feel ashamed and then come up with even harder ones to fulfill the next year. What the heck is the problem? Well, resolutions are just “firm decisions to do or not to do something”…that’s it and that’s all! It is missing a few huge components such as GRACE and PLANNING! We don’t factor in unpredictability and it’s common to compose them from a very rigid mindset. Then, we don’t have any clear steps or establish an appropriate plan on how to get there. We’re also very guilty of having too many New Years resolutions and that alone can become overwhelming. So, how do we face the new year with new goals that have adequate intentions and focus?

First, we should minimize the number of resolutions we have. As therapists, we often speak to our clients about setting goals that (1) realistic for you and align with your life (2) sustainable, so that it’s easily incorporated into your daily routine (3) time sensitive. It’s important that when we set resolutions that we see the “finish line” or get to a point in which we can see that changes have occurred.

Secondly, we should develop resolutions that are meaningful instead of putting our energy into superficial ones. Commit to things in life that will make you whole and healed like getting some help, setting boundaries with folks and giving your self permission to be authentically you. Yes, they may be more difficult to achieve but the outcomes will be much more rewarding and long lasting.

So, the new year is here, let’s move full speed ahead with a focus, intent and realistic resolutions that will not only align with our lives but leave lasting and sustainable impacts on our futures. Ready, Set, Go!!!