What to do if you don’t want to set goals for the new year
Is it ok not to set New Year’s Resolutions?
The new year is right around the corner and the idea of setting new year’s resolutions is in the air. The expectation to set goals can sometimes be overwhelming. It's completely up to you whether or not you want to set New Year's resolutions. Some find it helpful to set goals for themselves at the beginning of the year, while others prefer to take a more relaxed approach. If you don't want to set New Year's resolutions, that's perfectly OK and there's no requirement to do so. You can make positive changes in your life at any time, not just at the beginning of the year.
It's completely normal to feel hesitant about setting goals, especially if you're not sure where to start or how to go about it. Here’s a few reminders for you if you don’t want to set goals:
You don't have to do it alone: If you're struggling to come up with goals or don't know where to start, consider seeking support from a friend, family member, or coach. They can help you brainstorm ideas and offer encouragement and guidance along the way.
It's OK to start small: Try not to feel like you have to set huge goals right away. You can start small and gradually build up. Small, achievable goals can help you feel a sense of accomplishment and progress.
It's never too late to start: It's never too late to start working on something you care about. It's OK if you don't have a clear plan or if you're not sure what you want to achieve. You’re welcome to take it one step at a time. Be open to exploring different options.
It's OK to change your mind: Your goals and priorities might change over time. Don't be afraid to reassess your goals and make adjustments when you need to. What's important is that you're taking steps towards something that matters to you.
Remember, setting goals is just one way to move forward and make progress. If it doesn't feel right for you, there are many other ways to approach self-improvement and personal growth.
What can I do instead of setting New Year’s Resolutions?
Reflect on the past year: Instead of setting new goals, take some time to reflect on what you've accomplished over the past year and what you're most proud of. This can help you feel a sense of accomplishment and give you a sense of grounding for the year ahead.
Practice gratitude: Rather than focusing on things you want to change, try focusing on things you're grateful for. You can keep a gratitude journal, or simply make a daily habit of thanking people in your life. Ex: What are some things that happened this past year that you’re grateful for?
Focus on self-care: Take care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.
Choose a theme for the year: Instead of setting specific goals, choose a theme or word to focus on for the year. This can help guide your actions and decisions, and can be something that you come back to throughout the year.
Create a vision board: You can create a physical (or digital) manifestation of your goals. A vision board includes collecting pictures or objects that speak to the future you imagine and arranging them on a board. It can serve as a reminder of where you’re heading and can take off the pressure of having specific goals.
Ultimately, it's important to do what feels right for you. If setting New Year's resolutions doesn't work for you, there are plenty of other ways to make positive changes in your life. Remember to be kind to yourself!