February 01, 2016
Resolve Not To Resolve
Are New Year’s Resolutions Helpful?
Most of the 318.9 million people in American have the desire to change, improve or advance in their life somehow. And the majority of the fervor is centered around January 1st. Some estimates say that more than 40% of Americans (that’s about 127.6 million of us) make New Year’s resolutions. But, statistics show that only 8% (only about 10 million people) who make New Year’s Resolutions actually achieve them (Forbes). So is it better to just not resolve at all?The Resolution: Not To Make A Resolution
Okay, we get the irony of this. But maybe this year it is better to forego the unnecessary pressure, and subsequent guilt, of a New Year’s resolution and just resolve to be happy exactly as you are. Still not sure? Huffington Post advises if any of the below applies to you, rethink resolving:- You aren’t motivated.
- Your resolution is too big.
- You have decision fatigue.
Mantra
If you’re not resolving to do anything, a mantra may not be necessary. But here are a few good sayings to keep in your mind when you need a reminder as to why you didn’t resolve.- Every day is a chance to begin again.
- My intention is to be joyful in whatever I do.
- I am enough, just as I am.
- The definition of success is happiness.
- I am accomplishing unnecessary goals by removing them from my list.
Visualize
Instead of visualizing a goal, just take 5 – 20 minutes each day to relax or meditate. The Art of Living reports that daily meditation will help you:- Reduce stress
- Reverse the appearance of aging
- Focus the time in your day better
- Appreciate life more
- Feel more connected
- Be happier
- Improve your brain function
- Sleep better
- Lose weight
- Fight disease
- Increase your attention span
Action Steps
This is the best part – there are no action steps! Take your newfound free time to just enjoy life! Get outside more, visit with friends, take a dance class, garden – whatever lights YOU up – and do it when YOU want, not when a resolution dictates! When you are feeling challenged in your New Year’s Non-Resolution (which will probably not happen), remember this quote:“Too often we use deadlines – real and imaginary – to imprison ourselves.”
- Arianna Huffington
Happy New Year everyone!