The New Year is for the New Me

Creating lasting resolutions for the new year, one step at a time.

The+New+Year+is+for+the+New+Me

America Martinez

America Martinez, Editor in Cheif

With each new year, many of us find ourselves stuck in a familiar dilemma. As our friends and family set their resolutions for 2019, the list of items we would like to accomplish may begin to feel overwhelming.

In year’s past, making empty promises and swearing on our souls yielded temporary results (as we’ve seen). But, once the clock reaches midnight, our wishes for a slimmer body and a thicker paycheck begin to lack luster.

To nourish long lasting change, we need to look in the mirror and be honest with ourselves.

Harvard Health notes, “Lifestyle changes are more likely to produce results if they are SMART — that is, specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-based.”

That said, the emphasis should not be on making multiple resolutions, but one meaningful, long-term goal.

For instance, if you wanted to be healthier, the first thing you would do is create an outline for your new lifestyle change. Identify the fruits and vegetables you like to eat and how much water is healthy for your body type.

Then, once you’ve figured out what you want your change to look like, specify how you will add them to your diet (like mixing ½ cup of blueberries into your cereal).

Keeping your change small is key, as behaviors that are easily achievable are more likely to become habits. In the long run, building small habits will promote growth of your physical and mental health.

Telling your friends and family about your resolutions for the new year is an easy way to keep yourself accountable and get your loved ones involved.

The American Psychological Association states, “Accepting help from those who care about you and will listen strengthens your resilience and commitment.”

2019 will bring out the best in us all, as long as we are willing to commit and strive to obtain better habits for our better self.