Yeah, you read that right. You shouldn’t create a new year’s resolution. It seems harmless: the calendar year comes to an end and everyone else creates a goal for the new year. Why shouldn’t I? Because why do you need an arbitrary day to make a change for the good? You should be motivated to make that change when it’s best for you. So this is what you should do instead.
What is the intention behind your goal?
If you’re setting this goal because everyone else is doing it, then stop. If you don’t feel it in your heart, gut, or head then chances are you won’t be successful. You might be ok with that. Which leads me to my next point.
Are you expecting failure?
We all know the statistics: you’re likely to have abandoned your goals by February. Do you think you will give up in less than 31 days? If yes, then what’s the point? A goal, or resolution, needs to be something that you’re willing to stick with for LIFE (well, at least for as long as it actually serves you for the better). Make sure the change you want to make is something reasonable.
Is your goal attainable?
Start small. Start simple. Psychologically set yourself up for success so you get that dopamine hit when you achieve your goal. Setting a goal to lose 40% of your body weight is not realistic, no matter who you are, how much money you have, or how hard you try (not to mention that it’s probably not healthy for most people and should be done under a doctor’s supervision). If you set a goal and achieve it, see if you can maintain it for a month (or two or three), then set a new goal.
Why wait for January first?
This is really my point. If you need an arbitrary date to start something, then it must not be that important to you, or you aren’t putting YOURSELF FIRST. There is no time better than the present to make a change for the good.
Put yourself first and have compassion.
Sounds simple, but in our society we don’t prioritize self-care nor do we prioritize self-compassion. If you can’t love and forgive yourself how can your provide compassion to those around you, especially those you love? The heart pumps blood to itself first before going to the rest of the body. Make sure you take care of you first so you can be strong enough to take care of those around you.
This year instead of setting a New Years Resolution, make a lifestyle change that you really want to make when you want to make it, make it simple and attainable. Lastly do it because it feels right and because you want to do it for you.