Let the New Year Begin

New Year’s resolutions are a part of the American consciousness. It seems to be a requirement that you start the year right by making your resolutions. For some, it is a great way to look forward to the next year with purpose and intent.

Yet, for others it is a setup for failure. Great plans are made, energy is high, but for some that is not enough.

To these people, I would like to say: try a new approach. Think about next year as a new start. Period. Don’t force yourself to make a resolution or two (or TEN) that will set you up for self judgment or avoidance.

If you must do something, here is an idea. Think about what you want to include in your year and incorporate a minute of that activity in your New Year’s Day.

For example, if you want to exercise, include an inside walk (yes, it is a real activity; many activity trackers include it in the exercise app). If you want to have more fun leisure activities, read a book, go to a movie. If you want to be more mindful, take a moment to relax your mind. Remember, the activity you chose is symbolic so only take a moment.

Think about the year in gentle terms of possibilities, desires, interest and fun. Sometimes, a change in perspective is change enough for one New Year.