When it comes to making resolutions for the New Year, many of us feel somewhat forced to create a certain kind of traditional declaration for bettering ourselves. While this is a great gesture, it can quickly get toxic if you’re not authentically wanting the change. Read on to learn more about the kinds of authentic resolutions that actually inspire positive growth and change.
I will choose simplicity over consumption
We have slowly become maximalist consumers, not knowing when to take a break. We indulge and overindulge, we watch entire series of episodes on Netflix, we have large meals without thinking, and we don’t meditate nearly enough. To choose simplicity over consumption is a great resolution, as you are consciously choosing to avoid quantity if it lacks quality. This shift leads to a lower consumption/higher quality lifestyle. You can still do the things you love but in moderation. Watch your favorite show, but just one episode in one sitting. This creates room for actual enjoyment, appreciation, gratitude, and awareness.
Vishvapani Blomfield writes in The Guardian.com, “A more mindful way of living values simplicity over consumption and allows space between activities. It focuses on doing one thing at a time and doing it fully. We need time to reflect and to be curious.”
I will ask the right questions
Knowing what questions to ask is the beginning of a beautiful romance between you and your future self. You owe it to yourself to ask the questions that hold value and importance in order to create effective, sustainable resolutions.
Julia Malacoff writes for InStyle.com, “When creating resolutions, ask yourself questions like:
- How do you want to feel? Will this resolution get you closer to that?
- What energy do you want to create? Will this resolution give you that type of energy?
- Are you operating from a place of restriction, or abundance? Does this resolution involve taking away things you like?
- Would you recommend this resolution to your younger sister or best friend?
- How will this resolution impact you five, 10, or 15 years from now?”
I will make smart goals
Goals are great. They infuse our minds with potential and excitement. The goals you should focus on should not be general, but more specific and realistic.
Brooke Lewitas writes for FoxNews.com, “Focus on smart goals. According to psychologist Peter Drucker, the more clearly defined your pathway is, the easier it is to follow. When you make your resolution ‘Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-Bound,’ you set yourself up for success. For example, the resolution “I want to grow my savings account” is easier to approach if it sounds like “I’d like to add ten thousand dollars to my savings account, by putting away fifteen percent of my paycheck for a year.” This makes it easier to track your progress. Plus, noticing your progress along the way arguably makes you more likely to continue.”
I will choose mindfulness through intention
Sometimes we need to “choose” something in order to claim it. A resolution to choose mindfulness means that you are opting to slow down and pay more attention to each step of your day. This is how habits change and evolve. You become aware of your unwanted behaviors. You become aware of who you are and who you want to be.
Clay Drinko, Ph.D. writes for PsychologyToday.com, “Mindfulness is the ultimate keystone habit. If mindfulness is practicing self-awareness of your thoughts feelings, bodily sensations, and environment, becoming more mindful will help you become more aware of what you’re eating, how you’re body is feeling, and how positive or negative your thoughts are. Becoming more mindful can inspire you to make other positive changes in your overall health, behavior, and mindset.”
I will not be afraid to say “no”
Many of us “people please” a little too much. This New Year, don’t be afraid of denying someone something when it messes with your own mental health. Make your mental health a priority and understand that you cannot please everyone all the time. Practice saying “no” and see how it feels in your body. Let these sensations give you courage, motivation, and confidence. You are worthy.
When you focus on choosing simplicity, being more mindful, asking the right questions, thinking of smart goals, and being willing to say “no” more often, you’ll feel the positive shift in your life. Those are resolutions worth making.
-Blue Bliss
Photo by Mikhail Nilov (Pexels.com)
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