If you’re anything like I am, you have mixed feelings about New Year’s resolutions. Believe it or not, approximately 40% of Americans make New Year resolutions each year. However under 10% of us actually follow thru with achieving them. Maybe this is because our resolutions are unrealistic and based in external desires. People tend to make resolutions about losing weight, going to the gym every day, or falling in love with their dream partner.
I would like you to consider making a different resolution this year. To come up with and stick to something that will add to you or your life as an individual- make you more creative, productive, and generally more content with in yourself.
Self-care is the discipline of taking care of your physical, mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being. And it’s a great option for your New Year’s resolution, because it’s very doable no matter where you are in life, and a very holistic approach to bettering yourself. In other words, self-care focuses on what’s best for you.
Here are 5 New Years resolutions that are “Self Focused”or based in “Self Care”
1. Meditation or Progressive Relaxation
Incorporating meditation or progressive relaxation techniques in to your daily routine is important. This can be as simple as downloading an app on your phone and sitting in a chair in a quiet space in your home for 10-20 minutes and follow the direction of the meditation.
2. Sleep
Getting enough sleep is associated with several physical and mental health benefits? Because of this, getting better sleep could be a great self-care area to focus on in the new year. The average person should get between seven and nine hours of sleep.
3. Enjoy- physical activity or exercise
Do something fun as your New Year’s resolution. Maybe there a hobby you’ve been wanting to try but just haven’t gotten around to it. Just pick one thing to try to get you started and then go from there. Try to incorporate something physical that makes you feel good. Don’t focus on the weight loss aspect or that you “have” to do this. Focus on something you enjoy doing- if you like to shop, go window shopping.
4. Change your Morning Routine
Changing your routine in the morning can really set the tone for the rest of your day. A rushed morning where you wake up already feeling behind and have to hustle out the door without eating breakfast doesn’t set your day up for success. But a morning where you are able to get ready in an unhurried way can help increase your chances for having a successful day.
5. Start Therapy
Everyone needs therapy! Therapy is not just reserved to go to when you are having a life crisis or problems. Therapy is the ultimate self-care act that you can do for yourself. Make an appointment and see if it is something you enjoy. Whether it’s one of these suggestions or another simple self-care practice, focusing on your overall well-being is a great way to improve yourself in the new year ahead. Plus, focusing on a lifestyle change, rather than a goal you have to check off on your list, means that you are making a lasting change in your life for the better.
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