With the new year quickly approaching, many people are thinking about how they can hit the reset button and start fresh in the coming year. Why do we feel compelled to set New Year’s resolutions? Why does the beginning of a year inspire us so much that we are willing to change our lives?
Researchers have found that we tend to take on new projects when significant milestones in time pass, such as the onset of a week, month or year. This is called the Fresh Start Effect.
We’re not a fan of New Year Resolutions
We hate to be the ‘negative Nancy’ on the block, but most New Years’ resolutions will fail. This study found that less than 20% of people keep their new years’ resolutions and the majority of them drop off by mid January. Sound familiar?
There are a few reasons why New Year’s resolutions don’t work. One reason is that many people set unrealistic goals for themselves, which makes it difficult to stick to their resolutions. Additionally, people often try to change too many things at once, which can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. Finally, some people may not have a clear plan or support system in place to help them achieve their goals, which can make it difficult to stay on track. All of these factors can make it difficult for people to follow through on their New Year’s resolutions.
Start now. Not in the New Year.
When setting goals, especially over the New Year, the majority of people treat their lives like a sprint instead of a marathon, getting exhausted before they’ve even started. Most people treat their lives like a sprint instead of a marathon, getting exhausted before they’ve even started.
There are a few reasons why you should not wait for New Year’s to work on your goals. First, waiting for a specific date to start working on your goals can create a false sense of motivation and momentum, which may not last once the excitement of the new year wears off. Additionally, waiting for a specific date to start working on your goals can create a sense of procrastination and delay, which can make it harder to achieve your goals. Finally, starting to work on your goals immediately can help you to take advantage of opportunities and make progress sooner, rather than waiting for a specific date to arrive. This can help to keep you motivated and on track.
The Habit Loop
The basis for all habit formation is a three-part loop known as the “habit loop.” This loop consists of the cue (the trigger that sets off the behaviour), the routine (the behaviour itself), and the reward (the positive outcome of the behaviour). To form a lasting habit, it is essential to have all three components.
This process repeats over time, and as it does, the behaviour becomes more and more automatic. The habit loop is a useful concept for understanding how habits are formed and for identifying ways to change them.
Areas to focus on when setting your goals
Nourish your body
This is on everyone’s list, every new year. Start by eating a healthy and balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein sources. Avoid processed and sugary foods, and try to limit your caffeine and alcohol intake. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and consider incorporating supplements into your routine to support your overall health.
Prioritise physical activity
Regular exercise can help improve your mood, reduce stress, and boost your energy levels. physical activity can help to reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins, helping to improve mood.
Find an activity that you enjoy, such as walking, dancing, or swimming, and aim to do it at least a few times a week. If you’re new to exercising, start slow and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
Mental Health
It’s also important to take care of your mental health. Try to reduce stress in your life by practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation. Make time for activities that bring you joy, whether that’s spending time with friends and family, pursuing a hobby, or taking a break to do something you enjoy.
Declutter your space
Another way to reset your body and mind is to declutter your physical space. A cluttered environment can contribute to feelings of stress and overwhelm, so take some time to tidy up and organise your living and work spaces. This can help create a sense of calm and clarity, and make it easier for you to focus and relax.
By decluttering your space, you can create a more peaceful and serene environment that can help to improve your mental clarity and focus.
Take some time to get your ideas down on paper
Finally, set some achievable goals for the new year. This could be related to your health, your career, or any other area of your life. Write down your goals and create a plan for how you will achieve them. This can help keep you motivated and on track as you work towards making positive changes in the new year.
Our take away…
Setting positive goals and habits can have a profound impact on your life. Don’t wait for the New Year – start now, take baby steps towards your goal. By setting clear and specific goals for yourself, you can create a roadmap for success and focus your energy and efforts on achieving your desired outcomes. Additionally, by developing positive habits, you can create a solid foundation for success and improve your overall well-being. By being mindful and intentional about the goals and habits you set for yourself, you can create lasting positive change and improve your quality of life. So, don’t wait any longer – start setting positive goals and habits today and take the first step towards creating the life you want to live.