The first week of new year’s is officially behind us which means it’s time to check up on our new year’s resolutions. Save money, exercise more, follow a new schedule, drink less alcohol, spend less time on social media, save more money….. It’s a never-ending tale. As a society, we look up to new year’s as a new beginning and exciting time to reset things. However, sometimes making resolutions can be more harmful than one can realize. 

“NEW YEAR” FRENZY

New year brings about different emotions for everyone and experiences for everyone. It brings an opportunity to fulfill goals that have been procrastinated all year long. There is nothing wrong in setting up goals for yourself but one should remember to do it in a way that is fit for us. Our new year’s resolutions tend to be extreme. While a little competition never hurts anybody, when we fail to reach these goals, we tend to think of ourselves as failures. 

Social media and conversations with the people around you can make you feel like you’re falling behind if you don’t have grand plans for the new year or if you fail to complete them. Everyone can seem to be announcing big goals but it’s important to remember that everyone has a different journey. Resist the urge to compare yourself to others; instead focus on what matters to YOU. Your new year’s doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s. 

DEBUNKING THE MYTH OF “NEW ME”

Over the years, we all have come across the phrase “new year new me”. It can feel empowering but in all fairness, it may not be required. We shouldn’t have to reinvent ourselves to make the new year eventful. Growth doesn’t require scrapping who you are but building on the foundation you’ve already created. It’s okay to continue with the same hobbies, likes/dislikes, and routines. 

PACING RESOLUTIONS

A major reason resolutions fail is because we have a tendency to tackle too much, too fast. Instead of transforming our lives in a week, let’s break our resolutions into smaller, manageable steps. For example:

• If you want to exercise regularly, start with two sessions a week and gradually add more.
• If you plan to read more books, commit to 10 minutes a day instead of finishing a novel in one sitting.

This approach helps build sustainable habits without burnout.

TIPS TO PACE RESOLUTIONS

• Set specific, realistic goals: Vague resolutions like “Get healthy” or “Be better” can be overwhelming. Break them into clear actions like “Walk 5,000 steps daily” or “Journal once a week.”
• Celebrate small wins: Every step forward counts. Reward yourself for progress, no matter how little it feels like.
• Change when necessary: Life happens and resolutions don’t have to be rigid. Adjust to fit your changing needs for realignment.

CONCLUSION

Not everyone needs to have a resolution to feel fulfilled. If 2024 was a great year for you, continue with whatever is working. No rule states that January needs to bring about a radical change in your lives. Sometimes, the best way is to maintain balance and thrive. The first week of 2025 does not have to be another whirlwind of pressure and change. Take things into focus and be content with who you are, because progress isn’t measured by how fast you go but by the steps you take toward your goals. Tackle your resolutions or just enjoy this fresh start on your terms.

Here’s to a satisfying start to 2025!