We’re into the new year now. Many of us probably have reflected on the past year, and maybe have created a list of New Year’s resolutions. It’s a new year and the time to start a new you. It sounds like a great idea, but is that the best mindset to start the year?
Most likely, we want to start fresh when we’re not satisfied with ourselves in the last year. We didn’t go to the gym as often as we planned, or we didn’t get that promotion we had hoped for. However, that doesn’t mean we didn’t work hard or achieve any of our goals throughout the year! So, why should we ignore and discredit all our accomplishments and who we were over the past year whenever New Year comes around?
How Should We Feel About a New Year Fresh Start?
We don’t always have to “start fresh” or become a new us when we ring in the new year. The desire to grow and improve ourselves is an admirable mindset and should really be encouraged, but we shouldn’t have to be so hard on ourselves when we do it. Nor should we create a list of New Year’s resolutions of things we don’t really care for or enjoy. If reading books is not something you enjoy, find another way to keep your mind creative. Or if going to the gym is not your thing, that’s okay – find another activity to stay active. Creating goals and strategies to succeed is a good idea, but that doesn’t mean we have to change everything about ourselves, nor does it always have to begin in the new year.
Reflect on Accomplishments and Be Kind to Yourself
This New Year, I encourage you to be kind to yourself – reflect on the accomplishments you’ve achieved and create new goals from there. Set goals that don’t need to be reached within the first few months of the year, but ones where you can continue to grow throughout this year and years to come. I worked at a mental health clinic for five years and learned that we need to meet people, including ourselves where we’re at and progress from there. It’s not necessary to change everything about yourself. That’s what makes you individually you!
