Embracing Resilience: Reframing Failed Resolutions and Cultivating Self-Love in the February
We are entering the 2nd month of 2024, and I’d like you to reflect on what New Year’s resolutions you made and how well you are sticking to those goals.
According to a Forbes Health Pole of 1000 Americans (I know, we’re Canadian, but it’s likely safe to assume these statistics are also relevant to us Canucks), improved fitness tops the list as the #1 New Year's resolution made. Also high on the list were mental health, weight-loss, and improved diet.
Another Forbes pole suggested that 8% of respondents stick with their goals for only 1 month, 22% last 2 and 3 months, and only 13 % last 4 months. So how do you make sure that you’re in the 13% that make it 4 months and beyond?
1. If you’ve already ditched your resolutions, or are thinking about it, re-visit your goals and ask yourself WHY you made that goal in the first place? When you achieve your goal, how will your life and relationships be different? What things will you be able to do that you can’t do now?
2. If your self-reflection determines that the original goal is still worthwhile, learn from your setbacks and adjust: Reflect on what barriers stood in your way (or might pop up) and identify how to overcome these barriers. Talk to family and friends to create the support network that you need. Do you need to sort out childcare so you can get to the gym? Do you need to give up late night Netflix so you can wake up earlier to get to the gym? Do you need to schedule “meetings” in your day planner to ensure grocery shopping and food prep gets done?
3. You may also need to adjust the action steps you created to meet your larger goal rather than giving up on it entirely. I.e., if your goal was to improve your diet, swearing off all junk-food, set realistic expectations, acknowledging that perfection is unattainable. Allow for 2-3 Splurge meals a week, looking ahead for social engagements to “spend” those splurges.
4. As you adjust your action steps, make sure to shift focus to positive habits that contribute to your overall well-being rather than fixating on a number on a scale, or what person X is lifting compared to you.
5. February is the month of love, and as you work away at your New Year’s resolutions, always remember to embrace self-compassion. Understand that everyone faces setbacks and treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Don’t give up, but rather adopt a growth mindset, learn from mistakes made or challenges faced and remember to acknowledge and celebrate the progress you've made, no matter how small.
Need help adjusting or sticking to your New Year’s resolutions?
If you’re an existing client, ask about doing a Goal review session with one of our trainers or if you’re new to PI contact us and tell us what your goals are, and we’ll help you get there!
