As the year comes to a close, it can be a good time to reflect on your habits and make positive changes for your resolutions for the future. But some people get stuck in making the same old commitments year after year.   Why not take some time to reflect on what has gone well and what can be improved with a new outlook for the adventures that the New Year will bring?  Here are a few ideas to get started.

Overcome procrastination.

Start the new year with a proactive mindset by tackling tasks promptly and avoiding unnecessary delays.

Nix negative self-talk.

Replace self-criticism with self-encouragement.

Challenge negative thoughts and focus on positive aspects of yourself. Work on being kinder to yourself.

Unhealthy eating habits.

Consider quitting or reducing the intake of unhealthy foods and learn about planning for a balanced, nutritious diet.

Express your feelings.

In some cases, we get disappointed when people don’t respond or treat us as we expect them to but we need to remember that other’s cannot read our minds and have a different perspective on things.

Our thoughts and feelings are unknown to the outside world unless we communicate them. Work on telling the people around you how you feel and give them a chance to treat you as you deserve. Moreover, communicating your feelings also reduces the overwhelm that comes with bottling everything up.

Stop doubting yourself.

Oftentimes we don’t even bother trying because we think we will not get it right or we don’t deserve the thing we want to go for. Remember,

‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.’- Wayne Gretzky.

Go out there and do it!

Cut excessive screen time.

Reduce the time spent on electronic devices, especially before bedtime. This can contribute to better sleep and overall well-being.

Review relationships.

Evaluate your relationships and consider letting go of those that are toxic or no longer serve your well-being. Spend as little time as possible with people who drain your energy and surround yourself with people who inspire you and help you get better.

Stop comparing yourself to others.

There is only one version of you, and that is all the world needs. Run your own race at your own pace and you will get where you are destined to be.

Quit unproductive habits.

Your resolutions should help you identify and commit to quitting habits that waste your time and hinder your productivity. Replace them with activities that contribute to your personal or professional growth.

Reduce clutter.

Declutter your physical space by getting rid of items you no longer need.

This can create a sense of order and calm in your environment. This will then transfer into your mental state as well, resulting in clearer thoughts and an overall improved state of mind and wellness.

Don’t break promises.

Both to yourself and to the people around you.

If you say you will do something, do it. Not only does that make you a reliable person, but it also gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Stop overcommitting.

Learn to say no and avoid overloading yourself with commitments.

Prioritize your time and energy for the most important tasks. You don’t have to agree to everything that is proposed to you. 

Stop trying to do everything alone.

This might seem like the best way to do things, but in most cases, teamwork really does make the dream work.

Don’t be scared to reach out to others for support or assistance. Talk to others who have walked your path, and you might be surprised by what you get to learn.

Embrace failure.

Embrace the idea that failure is a part of growth and success.  Anyone who doesn’t make mistakes doesn’t learn.  Quit the fear that holds you back, and be open to taking risks.

Stop trying to be perfect.

Life is not perfect, but it is still worth living and enjoying.

You won’t be able to do everything perfectly, but you will do a lot of fulfilling things. Focus on the good and enjoyable aspects and don’t dwell much on chasing perfection. 

Quit mindless spending

Evaluate your spending habits and quit unnecessary expenses. Create a budget and be mindful of your financial decisions.

Exercise.

If you’ve been inactive, consider letting go of the sedentary lifestyle. Incorporate regular exercise into your routine for improved physical and mental well-being.

Quit complaining.

Practice gratitude and quit the habit of constant complaining. Focus on what you have and find solutions to challenges instead.

What Will You Tackle for Your Resolutions?

Changing habits does not happen overnight; it takes time, and it is not always a linear journey. Sometimes we fall back into old habits, but that is not the end of the world.  As long as there is still the desire, it can still be done.

Making positive changes is a gradual process, and it’s okay to start small. As you head into 2024, make some time to reflect on your year and accomplishments, but also, what you want to put your focus on for the coming year.  Who knows what wonderful adventures you will enjoy?