Let’s Stop Calling Them Resolutions
Why do Resolutions Fail?
Resolutions have a bad reputation. They are so closely tied to the new year and since the new year happens….once a year…then if you “fail” you have to wait until the next year to try again. If you call them ANYTHING BUT RESOLUTIONS, you can change them any time you want! You don’t have to wait a whole year, or 10 months, or 11 months and 28 days… there is no longer “failure”, there is endless opportunity for reflection, adjustment and redirection.
Most resolutions are also unrealistic or not specific enough. They’re often things we think we “should” do, but not necessarily something we actually want to do.
The solution: start with something you REALLY want to do. Build your momentum by choosing something that excites or interests you and then use that momentum to gradually work towards things that you feel like you should do that might be less fun. Starting with the un-fun things increases the likelihood of crashing and burning from the start.
And don’t call them resolutions! Resolutions are too rigid; You’re allowed to change your goals.
Annual Check-Ins
I personally really like using the changing of the calendar year as an annual check in to reflect on the past year and cook up plans for the next. I think this process is really valuable and for me it seems to naturally fit into that changing of the year, but it could also be done at any time of year. If you’re interested in an annual check in but don’t like doing it at New Year’s just be sure to schedule it for the same time each year for consistency!
Rough draft of this year’s goals & plans, straight out of the notes app.
Goals and Plans
Instead of resolutions, I create a set of goals and plans each year. I typically have quite a few that I split into three different categories: business, financial, and personal. I write them on a large index card and stick them on the wall above my desk as a reminder throughout the year. At the end of the year, I celebrate the ones I accomplished, carryover any that are ongoing, and trade out any that no longer feel important for new things to try. It’s a fairly flexible system that has been working well for me.
Make the Process Fun
If you like the idea of some sort of new year ritual, but don’t want to set goals or plans, consider making a collage or mood board for the year. This can be done old-school style with magazine cut outs, or digitally using Pinterest and Canva to collect images that inspire you.
You have probably heard people say “that wasn’t on my bingo card for this year,” but have you considered actually making a bingo card for the year?? It’s so fun! You can put anything you want on it, the world is your…bingo card.
None of This is Required
Ultimately, if none of this sounds fun then you probably don’t need me to tell you not to do it. One of the greatest realities of adulthood is that you get to choose what you do. Just because I think it’s fun doesn’t mean that you have to think it’s fun too. We can still be friends :)
No matter which camp you’re in, I hope you also lean into the hibernation qualities of the winter season and find ways to rest, connect with people you love, and nourish yourself.
Good luck out there!
