While the whole world is getting inspired by new year coming up, I won’t be making any big plans. Why did I stop making New Year’s resolutions?
New Year is almost here! Christmas songs are unavoidable this far into December and the weather outside my window is grey and unfriendly. What keeps everyone’s spirits high is the upcoming holiday season. Besides Santa, gifts and delicious food, this time of the year is also known for looking back and reflecting on the past year. That is when we summarize how far we’ve gone and think about where we’re heading at. That’s where New Year’s resolutions come into place, and oh boy am I not a fan.
I can understand how a fresh start and a brand new year make people excited. Looking back and reflecting as we close one chapter behind us can be very insightful. Having hopes and dreams for the new one is also great. But, writing them down as a list usually doesn’t work. Why? Maybe because a few weeks into 2018 life will get in the way of our plans and we’ll make excuses. You’ll find a million reasons for not hitting the gym, or not going to that class, or not quitting your job. That is how we’re wired as humans.
Changes are hard and scary. They also take time and sometimes things need to marinate in your brain before you build up the courage to do something. That is why I stopped making a new year’s resolution list. Instead of stressing myself with a lot of high goals, I just look back and state what I’m grateful for from the past year. I also acknowledge things that went bad and that need some work. That work is a constant and it should not occur only after another year shows its pretty faces and causes a wave of enthusiasm.
Have hopes, dreams and goals, but make sure you work on them daily.
Make small steps instead of thinking that you’ll make a huge leap simply because the date has changed. Work on improving your life and being a better you all year round. And most importantly, don’t be too harsh on yourself. Give yourself time to get to where you want to be and don’t forget to celebrate each step that takes you closer to it. When living like that, who needs new year’s resolutions?
