Week three into the New Year, and our resolutions often find themselves losing steam. It’s a familiar pattern, isn’t it? Why does this happen every year? Let’s break it down:
Overwhelming Ambitions: As we sit on our sofas, still basking in the holiday relaxation, we tend to feel invincible and optimistic. We take on a multitude of resolutions, believing we can conquer them all. This can-do attitude is admirable, but it often leads us to overcommit, taking on more than we can realistically handle.
- Solution: Instead of overwhelming ourselves, let’s take a step back and choose one goal. Redefine your resolution and break it into manageable chunks. If it’s a wellness goal, consider dividing it into exercise, dietary changes, and meditation. Be specific about each part. Remember, if one aspect falters, the others can keep you on track.
Underestimating Time: We frequently underestimate the time and effort required to fulfill our resolutions. For instance, aiming to shed 50 pounds in three months demands significant changes in our diet and exercise routine. This can be particularly challenging as we return to work with new projects and commitments.
- Solution: Realism is key. Assess your resolution and determine which guidelines you can realistically stick to. If you’re a coffee addict and cutting it out entirely leads to withdrawals and headaches, consider gradually reducing your coffee intake while finding a suitable replacement. Remember, change takes time.
Impatience and Discouragement: It’s common to feel discouraged when we don’t see immediate results. Our bodies need time to adapt to new routines, especially after indulging during the holiday season.
- Solution: Be patient and kind to yourself. Celebrate small wins daily, and maintain a journal to track your progress. Each step forward, no matter how small, gets you closer to your goal. Acknowledge your achievements and keep your momentum going.
The Temptation to Quit: Sometimes, unexpected obstacles arise. Muscle injuries can slow us down when we’re not used to intensive exercise, or illness strikes during flu season. As winter forces us indoors, it’s easy to revert to comfort food.
- Solution: Don’t quit! Modify what you can and stay the course. If you initially set five resolutions, consider focusing on three for now. You can reintroduce the others as you build momentum. Imagine where you want to be three months from now, and make your goals more achievable and less stringent. Celebrate the small wins—they are milestones on your journey.
In the pursuit of a healthy and fulfilling 2024, remember not to quit. The path to well-being is challenging and filled with obstacles, but with modification, patience, and a focus on achievable goals, you can overcome them. If you’d like to delve deeper into your goals and discover ways to reset and keep moving forward, feel free to connect with me through my Calendly link.
Wishing you a year filled with success and blessings!
Warm regards,
Doris Muna
Founder: Dorothea Healing