Ditch the "New You": Rethinking Resolutions

Ready to Redefine your resolutions?

My social media feed resembles a bustling market lately, flooded with weight loss regimes, exercise plans, and organization hacks all shouting the 'New Year, New You' anthem.

But have you ever stopped to consider the underlying message behind this mantra? The notion of needing a 'New You' implies there's something inherently wrong with who you are right now. It insinuates that your current self isn't complete. That it’s lacking in value and self-worth.

Think about it - It’s telling you that in order to work towards something, you have to dislike who you currently are.

That’s messed up for so many reasons, but the most compelling argument against it is that striving towards a goal while holding disdain for your present self undermines your progress.

Consider weight loss, a frequent resolution for many. The most effective approach for long term weight loss involves gradual change without extreme measures, which is more attainable when it isn't clouded by self-loathing.

Because when you don’t like who you are, you’ll rush towards an imagined version of yourself in the future, hoping to escape the discomfort of not feeling good enough right now. In this whirlwind pursuit of change, the pressure piles on, believing that only in reaching some distant ideal can you finally find peace and acceptance.

This approach is the reason why most people do not succeed at their goals.

Instead, try something different.

Shift your focus towards growth that is rooted in self-acceptance. This involves embracing the idea that improvement doesn’t stem from inadequacy but from a desire to expand one's capabilities and experiences.

So, as we step into this New Year, here's my heartfelt wish for you: let self-acceptance guide your path through the next 365 days. May you wholeheartedly believe in your innate self-worth and set your goals from a place of pure joy.