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It’s that time of year again, ya know… out with the old, in with the new… new year, new me. Every combination of that phrase boils down to the expectation that all change happens on the other side of a new calendar. If we are only allowed to incite major changes in our life once the new year begins then what happens when we fall off of our goals? It all feels like an anxiety-inducing rush to “be better”, but it is entirely unrealistic.
I am not saying that we don’t need goals or something to work on for ourselves; however, maybe being realistic about the expectations we have is a healthier approach. Here are a few things you can practice when you find yourself wanting to set goals while leaving the anxiety of perfection behind.
Start Small
Tiny habits build into long-lasting behavioral changes. So you want to lose 30 pounds, but you haven’t broken into a sweat since your fries rolled under the seat while driving. Starting small means going for a walk or to the gym 2/7 days in a week (previously you were at 0/7 days), this allows you to begin the process of managing your time with the new habit.
Goals Aren’t Linear
It’s not a straight shot from start to finish on your journey. Instead look at your goal as a lifestyle change; maybe you will fall off every once in a while, but as you build a new foundation you will inevitably get back on track.
Be Willing to Readjust
Sometimes the reason why a habit or goal doesn’t work is because it simply cannot fit into the life we have. Sure, we would all love to have 100% dedication to becoming a bodybuilder but that lifestyle is not conducive to working, caring for kids, keeping up with sports, or community groups. The cool thing about setting your goals is they are yours.
Here is a better catchphrase for 2023: “New year, same me, but still working on me”. Where do you want to be this time next year? Visualize and put into action what you want to achieve, but also remember you don’t have to be driven by anxiety in order to get there.
At Mind Works Counseling Services in Lubbock, TX we work with individuals who are hoping to move forward in life and who want to finally put anxiety and depression in their place.
Learn more about the Anxiety Counseling services we offer.
Contact us to schedule an appointment or to let us answer any questions you may have.