New Ideas for a New Year

By Kat Palms

The specificity and rigidity of new year's resolutions can make it challenging to maintain them. While the desire to set your resolution comes from an intentional place, the loftiness and significant lifestyle change a resolution requires can be overwhelming. 

According to a study by the University of Scranton, New Year's resolutions are about self-improvement (living healthier 23% of people, getting happy 21%, losing weight 20%, exercising 7%, stopping smoking 5%, reducing drinking 2%). In addition, people resolve to meet career or job goals (16%) and improve their relationships (11%).
Despite their big plans, only 8% of people will achieve their New Year's resolutions. 

To avoid a feeling of "failing: on your New Year New Me Resolution, here are some suggestions for a different way to embrace a new year. 

• Set an intention for 2023. For example, choose one word you will focus on living true to for the entire year. With your attention on improving yourself toward that one word all year, you might be surprised at how many good changes you make. 
• Take things day by day. Instead of one huge goal for 2023, set small tiny, specific daily goals. Breaking them down into SMART Goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.) will help make significant changes more attainable. 
• Make a 2023 bucket list. Take time to reflect on the experiences you want to have in 2023. Write time all down and leave space to check or cross them out when you accomplish something on your list. Make sure to keep this list out in the open, so you remember all the awesome things you want to do, and it will serve as a reminder that you need to make them happen. 

Suppose you keep a new year's resolution. All the power to you! You're part of the 8%. But if you're like most individuals and cannot stick to your lofty vision of 2023, the above ideas can help you re-focus and continue to work toward what's important to you. 

Whatever you do, please know you have the power in your palms to live your best life. You have to discover what works for your unique body, mind, and soul and then pursue it. 

A quote for this new year: "Small daily improvements are the key to staggering long-term results." - Unknown 

Wishing you a bright, beautiful, and blessed 2023!
-Kat