As we start the New Year, the phrase “new year, new me” often resurfaces. This phrase brings up many different thoughts and reactions, first starting with, why do you need to create a “new you”? This has the connotation that you need to completely recreate yourself. Rather, why not focus on crafting the best version of yourself.

The New Year tends to bring pressure to create a big resolution, but often these goals do not seem attainable and are often forgotten. This year, instead of formulating one overarching specific resolution, why not try something new? The following are just some ideas of how to be kinder to yourself while creating goals.

• Word of the year: Take time to consider the values and goals that you would like to cultivate for yourself throughout the year. Rather than creating a specific goal, think about a word that could encompass all these factors. Finding a word or theme that defines what you would like to focus on throughout the year allows your goals to be flexible and attainable. Some examples could include “happiness”, “health”, “compassion”, “growth”, “patience”. Focus on your word daily and let it be your guide.

• Create a log: Rather than creating a goal that may not be feasible, take the time to log your accomplishments as it relates to what you are striving to create for yourself for the new year. If you would like to become healthier, take time to log your food and workouts; if you would like to craft more often, take time to log how many days a week or how many crafts you create; if you would like to save money, track your spending. By creating a log for yourself it increases your awareness and allows you to make changes where it seems necessary.

• Reflect on the positive: While you consider the changes you would like to make for yourself as you enter a new year, make sure to appreciate and reflect on your accomplishments and positive moments of the past year. Oftentimes, individuals focus on what they would like to change or accomplish, but do not take acknowledge the positive changes that have already been made. It is important to celebrate and take note of your achievements from the previous year.

• Focus on what you are looking forward to: Rather than focusing on a specific resolution, take the time to note what it is that you are looking forward to for the upcoming year. Do you have a vacation planned that you are excited for? Do you plan to start a new career? Or do you simply looking forward to spending more time with loved ones? When you take the time to reflect on what it is that you are looking forward to, it helps bring awareness to the positives that you already have.

• Identify positive intentions: Resolutions tend to come with a firm structure or idea, whereas intentions bring flexibility. Create an intention for yourself as you come into the new year. Some examples include: “be kinder to myself”, “try to think more positively”, “spend more time doing what I enjoy”. An intention for the New Year can be a positive way to guide you without setting firm boundaries.

 Seeking additional support as you work toward kinder goals for yourself? Click here.