After a year as difficult as 2020, New Year’s Resolutions seem a little pointless for 2021. As someone who is usually a die-hard New Year’s Resolutions maker, this feels a little weird. However, this year feels like it calls for a new tradition. Something to, break the cycle, if you will.
Last year, I wrote about the difference between goals and resolutions to start off 2020. How well do you think that went?
So, instead of sharing my New Year’s Resolutions this year, I’m sharing 5 things you can do instead.
Pick ONE new habit to start doing – NOT one thing to perfect or achieve
Maybe start making your bed every morning. Or journaling for 5 minutes, or making a cup of tea before bed to unwind. The point of this is to focus on doing something (whatever it may be) that makes you feel good as often as you can – NOT focusing on getting better at something or achieving something.
Come up with an affirmation for 2021
Affirmations sound cheesy as hell. However, having something positive to repeat to yourself when you’re falling into old traps of self-doubt can help you remember what really matters. This article from The Every Girl has 50 different affirmations that you could try out if you don’t have one in mind for yourself.
Make a list of things you’re letting go of in 2021 (like this Instagram post I made)
Sometimes we need to subtract, not add, more to our lives. I posted a few things I’m letting go of on Instagram after seeing @hannahlozanophoto do it. I’m not usually one to jump on the bandwagon but I absolutely loved the idea. Sometimes, the solution isn’t to do more, be more, have more.
Write down all of the things that you ALREADY like about yourself
Better yet – make this a game with friends. Everyone has to write down one thing that they like about every other person. This is a great way to remind yourself that you don’t need improvement. Gaining new skills, getting in shape, eating better, etc. are all great things to do – but you’re already great in so many ways without them.
Make a plan for how to relax and cheer yourself up the next time you have a rough day.
Keeping a list of “activities” or small actions can be super helpful for the days when you’re feeling down. On a bad day, it’s difficult to be proactive. Having a list that’s already made makes this easier by giving you a “shortcut.” Just start by picking something on the list!
