Realistic Resolutions
It’s the last day of 2023!
In my younger years, I’d be mad dashing to put together a new outfit/hair/makeup LEWK for whatever festivities the evening had in store. All the while, I’d be quietly taking stock of the resolution I’d set for myself that year and more often then not, feeling a little bit sad about not achieving what I wanted to.
At the wizened age of 38, I have learned that resolutions don’t work for me and I’m better served by taking a different approach, both in how I talk to myself while reflecting on the year, as well as how I identify and articulate my intentions for the upcoming year. Here are some things I’ve learned that I wish I could pass along to young me perhaps current you could benefit from:
It’s not that serious. The whole point of a resolution, intention, goal, whatever is to have some kind of a positive impact on your life. What if, instead of focusing on something you’re not happy with that needs changing, you instead focused on amplifying or adding to something that is already bringing you joy?
Example: “My 2024 resolution is to make space for meaningful connection with one friend each week, especially during weeks when I’m harmfully hermiting.”
Make sure you have a powerful “why” and that it belongs to you. Sometimes we pick up goals that we think are important to us but then struggle to prioritize the work necessary to achieve the goal. Maybe the “why” isn’t powerful enough (for at least right now) or maybe it’s a “why” that you inherited and feel obliged to.
Example: “My goal this year is to walk 10k steps per day.” 10k steps/day has been debunked as the gold standard for minimum movement goals and isn’t generally achievable for the average person unless you have a very active job. Adding walking and movement to your days is an excellent goal to have - make it personal and powerful FOR YOU.
Get clear about the long-, mid-, and short- range milestones. An ambitious intention isn’t achieved over night. Take the time to map out your path to success with sustained progress throughout the year.
Example: “By the end of 2024 I intend to run a marathon.” Love this! What are steps to getting there? Maybe you want to aim to get a couple of half marathons under your belt in the middle of the year. What if you’re not running at all right now? Maybe committing to a couch-to-5k program with a friend is a good place to start.
There’s a lot more I’d probably tell younger me but it’s time to mad dash to put together this year’s LEWK. Some things will never change and I feel great about that!
Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2024!
-LM
