HOW TO BE A TAKER IN 2017
And just like that it’s here again. The most wonderful time of the year: time for New Year’s Resolutions. For the sake of this post, I’m going to shorten New Year’s Resolution to NYR (yes, I’m just that lazy). Should I have one? Should I skip it and save myself the disappointment? Do they even work? How will I stay motivated? What should I focus on? What if I fail? What if I succeed?
According to the American Psychological Association, 45% of us will make a NYR. At the end of the year, only 8% will be actively working on their resolution. Obviously, we are in complete support of any goal to focus on self-improvement and growth. Witnessing powerful changes happening in the lives of our clients is why we are passionate about counseling! The problem with NYRs is that they are often rooted in deprivation. Focused on what you have to give up instead of what you have to gain. Sabotaged from the start by putting a magnifying glass on the parts of us we feel the most uncomfortable and self-conscious about.
While there is no sure-fire, fool-proof way to find and keep motivation, research has shown that negative motivation is not as effective as positive motivation. Meaning: focusing on what you have to gain is more motivating than focusing on what you have to lose. Instead of thinking about what you need to lose or get rid of, we invite you to start thinking of what is there for the taking. There is SO much waiting for you! Here are a few ways to practice being a taker in 2017.
Take Inventory
What better time than now to take inventory of the positives? Study after study has shown that having a regular practice of gratitude – even (especially!) when you’re stressed and having a hard time naming positives – contributes to changing thought patterns which, in turn, can change your mood. This happens on a physiological level and can leave you more prepared to deal with the stresses life throws at you. Many people report a positive change in mood, a sense of being grounded and calm, and higher resiliency against life stressors after practicing gratitude for only 5 minutes a day. One common way to practice gratitude is to keep a journal by your bed and make it a habit to make a gratitude list at the beginning or end of the day.
Take Time
Taking time for yourself; it’s often one of the very first things that gets sacrificed in the daily shuffle. At the risk of sounding preachy, having a scheduled time out can be one of the most powerful gifts you can offer yourself. This could be taking time to exercise, practice yoga, meditate, connect to your breath, craft, go for a mindful walk, journal, cook, draw, or slowly sip your favorite tea. Sadly, watching TV and going online don’t count (I know, bummer). Allow yourself to be as creative as possible and find something that is a good fit for you.
Take Adventure
Adventure is anything that takes you out of your comfort zone. Maybe you’ve been thinking about learning a new language, joining an art class, or trying a new type of exercise. Anything new to you is an adventure. Please don’t underestimate the power of your adventurous spirit! You were made to explore and grow.
One last but important point about NYR: it is important to ask for support in your plans to be a taker in 2017. According to the American Psychological Association, the most important factor in making any goal setting successful (whether it is June or January) is to enlist support. Asking a family member, friend, or coworker for support can greatly improve the likelihood that you’ll take what you want in 2017. At South Hills Wellness Group, we welcome the chance to work with you and help you make sense of barriers that are getting in your way. Be grateful, be bold, be adventurous, and most importantly, BE WELL!
