The beginning of the year can be an exciting time because it is a great opportunity to start fresh. People like to do New Year’s resolutions so they can either set the tone for a new chapter, plan for the foreseeable future, or just to intentionally make new changes in their lives. On the other hand, it could also be an anxiety-inducing time. Making resolutions is one way to reduce the stress of what’s to come, but these plans don’t always pan out. In fact, carrying them out successfully don’t happen more often than not.

So, what realistic steps can you do to start the new year right? Here are our suggestions.

Set reasonable goals.

We all set goals for ourselves – sometimes, to the point of making them unattainable, like setting an unreasonable timeframe to achieve something. And then once we fall short of the goal, we feel frustrated and anxious. It’s important to be selective when you establishing your goals, and then getting to them, slowly, but surely rather than speeding up the process just so you can say you have accomplished them within the timeframe you have set for yourself.

Make course corrections if you have to.

Our goals are not set in stone. There will be instances that you might need to make a few changes or adjustments if you are not heading in the right direction. Course corrections are necessary in a person’s journey. You will find that these corrections will teach you valuable life lessons as you go along, making each step more satisfying and fulfilling.

Ask for help if necessary.

The future can be scary, but you don’t have to go through the ride alone especially if you are struggling to navigate it. There is no shame in admitting that you might need some help or guidance. You can ask your family and friends for assistance. You can also ask a mentor or counsellor to give you pointers to get to your destination correctly. If things are not going according to your plan, never hesitate to ask.

Schedule time for your personal needs.

Forgetting about what you personally need is so easy especially if you are too laser-focused in reaching your goals. You need to remind yourself to take care of yourself more than anything else. Take some time off if you must. Your mental health may be compromised if you don’t get enough rest. Schedule time on your calendar where you can be free from distractions and just relax.

Avoid doing things the same way.

Albert Einstein’s famous quote, “insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results,” can be applied in different aspects of our lives. In order to move forward, you must learn to not keep doing things the same way, especially if it has caused you problems instead of solutions. If these actions didn’t work in your favor the first time, try a different approach. Your past failures should not define your future. You have all the time in the world to make a difference.

Written by Sheena Javier

Albert Einstein: The definition of insanity is doing the same thing …. https://professorbuzzkill.com/einstein-insanity-qnq/

Bernstein, G. (2019, December 29). How to Start the New Year: The First 5 Things to Do in 2020. Gabby Bernstein. https://gabbybernstein.com/start-the-new-year/

Matuson, R. (n.d.). 10 Tips To Start The New Year Off Right. Forbes. Retrieved November 21, 2022, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/robertamatuson/2021/12/31/10-tips-to-start-the-new-year-off-right/?sh=20ea4d9fc1f6