Making a Change for Good

As we leave the holidays behind us, our thoughts naturally move toward what changes we would like to make in order to improve our quality of life. We have all been there. We set huge lofty goals that are too much of a commitment for the reality of our busy daily lives.

This year, try taking a more mindful approach to your New Year’s resolution. Taking a step back and reviewing the past year may help you follow through with your commitment. Using a retrospective approach can also help you understand the “why” behind your intentions.

The new year is the perfect opportunity for journaling about the areas of your life that need the most attention and can improve your overall well-being. Start with the following prompts and see where you land:

1. What would you consider your most important focus? Health and vitality? Love and relationships? Lifestyle changes? Mental health and/or spiritual connection?
2. What habits do you want to release?
3. What rituals would you like to commit to?

Once you have established the areas of your life that need your attention, break them into three categories so you are able to approach each goal in the most fitting way. 

Your first type of intention may be a small daily routine or ritual shift. What small, consistent habits can you commit to on a daily basis? At what point in your day can you slip this ritual in? Before coffee? After lunch?

The second type of intention often requires a larger time and energy commitment. This may be hitting the gym three days per week or finally starting the novel you have always dreamt of writing. Create a calendar. Which days and times can you commit to this goal? Is there someone you can depend on to hold you accountable on the days you want to miss?

The last type of resolution would be a more significant lifestyle change. Perhaps you are looking to improve your heart health or venture into a new career. Often the first steps are the hardest with these types of goals. Remember to focus on the process rather than the outcome. What small steps need to happen first? What ways are you able to measure your success for this lofty intention? Create a monthly self check-in. Often the first of each month is the easiest to remember.

Once again, journaling can assist in bringing clarity and aid in recommitment if your focus has fallen away:

1. What small successes did you have in the last 30 days?
2. What do you need to do to set yourself up for success in the days and weeks ahead? 

Remember this season and all year long to offer yourself compassion and grace. The good news is each day is a new opportunity to start again!

– Meghan Henley, Blackberry Assistant Director of Wellness