Ditch those Resolutions! Progress NOT perfection!

I’ve never been a fan of New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I believe in “each day is a new beginning”. And “progress NOT perfection!” Placing so much importance on a single moment in time can feel overwhelming.

Life gets busy. Sunny beaches call to me, along with laundry, work, and my garden. The “should” list is always there. I’ve adopted a “to BE” list instead of a “to DO” list. Be grateful. Be kind. Be balanced. Be creative. Be present for myself and others. Still, I recognize the importance of moving forward with projects that bring me joy when accomplished. These may be health-related, work-related, or tied to my home and family.

My approach is to share these intentions with a trusted friend who can help keep me accountable. Breaking down goals into manageable pieces makes them feel more achievable. This is how I can begin.

New Year’s resolutions often fail because the goals we set are unrealistic, overly ambitious, or lack a clear plan. There’s often no accountability, making it easy to lose motivation and give up. Here are some common pitfalls:

1. Unrealistic Expectations: Setting goals that require big changes too quickly can lead to discouragement.

2. Lack of Accountability: Without a support system or someone to check in with, it’s easier to abandon resolutions.

3. Forgetting Your “Why”: Understanding the deeper reason behind your goal is crucial. For instance, my “why” for weight training and stretching is to be stronger and more flexible so I can play with my grandkids on the floor and run around with them. Without a clear purpose, it’s harder to stay committed when challenges arise.

For larger goals like improving health or decluttering your home, these strategies can help:

1. Break Goals Into Smaller Steps: Progress feels more attainable when you take small steps. For example, “Today I’ll clean out one drawer” or “Today I’ll do 5 minutes of bicep curls with weights.”

2. Find an Accountability Partner: Share your goals with a friend, family member, or join an accountability group.

3. Track Your Progress: Notice the improvements—it might be easier to get up off the floor, button your pants, or see a cleared space in your guest bedroom.

4. Celebrate Small Wins: Reward yourself for consistent effort. It’s amazing how much relief and freedom I feel after accomplishing something that initially felt overwhelming.

Small steps, consistent movement, and self-forgiveness when we stray off course are key. Remember, you can begin again anytime!

Instead of setting harsh or unrealistic goals, try small, achievable ones. Here are some examples of health-conscious goals you might try:

·        Incorporate some plant-based meals

·        Reduce sugar and eat more whole foods

·        Spend time in nature

·        Walk three times with a friend

·        Practice 3 minutes of mindful breathing

·        Meditate for 5 minutes

·        Stretch for 5 minutes

·        Start a gratitude journal

·        Go to bed by 10 PM

·        Drink more water during the day

·        Eat more mindfully

·        Take 30 minutes just for yourself to relax

·        Do 5 minutes of resistance exercises three days a week

If your goals are house-related, try these:

·        Clean out two drawers or one closet

·        Paint the bathroom trim

·        Go through your clothes and purge what you no longer need

Be gentle with yourself. Wellness and positive changes can happen in small steps.

For anyone interested in joining a weekly accountability group on Zoom, I’ll be starting one in the New Year! Email me at anniewattswellness@gmail.com for more information.

Wishing you a blessed and happy 2025!