There is often a lot of pressure and expectation attached to the new year. It’s okay to find the new year difficult and it’s okay to not have everything together. Setting new year resolutions based on shame, guilt or a sense of obligation can do more harm than good. Some things to consider:
Realistic goals: Setting big or vague goals without concrete steps can be a fast track to burn out and failure.
All or nothing thinking: A small slip up doesn’t mean you have failed. If you make a mistake or don’t manage to achieve your new aims one day, be kind to yourself.
Motivation: If you do want to focus on an area of self improvement, try to do it from a place of positive self love rather than shame or negative self talk.
Planning: Stress and temptation can easily derail plans without some preparation, especially when motivation fades after the initial excitement.
Mental health impact: Failed resolutions can worsen self-criticism, induce anxiety, and lead to feelings of hopelessness or depression. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
Try to let go of the expectations and try to be encouraged by who you are today. Focus on one step at a time and be kind to yourself.
This article looks at why new year’s resolutions can be unhelpful and how to set healthy goals instead:
