New Year’s Resolutions That Support Your Mental Well-Being
It’s a new year and a new semester! New beginnings are often a time to reflect on our habits, routines and goals. “New Year’s resolutions” is a phrase we’re accustomed to hearing this time of year, and the pressure and expectation to set resolutions can have unintended negative effects on our mental health. That’s because traditional resolutions often focus on “fixing” flaws – like weight loss or job worries – which can lead to feelings of negative self-image, and if you fail, may trigger feelings of failure or inadequacy.
Instead, try to reframe your mindset and take a more positive approach to your New Year’s goals in a way that promotes self-compassion. Focus on intentions over resolutions and progress over perfection. Ask yourself, what can you achieve?
For example:
- Replace "lose 20 pounds" with "prioritize nourishing my body and staying active in ways that feel good."
- Swap "get a promotion" for "identify and build skills that excite and inspire me."
- Move away from "fix my flaws" toward "celebrate small wins and practice self-kindness."
Some basic things can do to support your mental health:
- Keep a gratitude journal.
- Schedule regular “unplugged” time.
- Explore new self-care activities like hobbies or mindfulness practices.
Check out this resource from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): New Year’s Resolutions – Building Good Mental Health Habits
If you don’t want to set any specific goals, that’s ok, too! Embrace who you are and accept that you are enough.
