New Year: New Start- Plant seeds of Positivity this coming New Year!
Starting the new year can be daunting and exciting both at the same time. Holding on the the past whilst setting goals for the future can be an anxious time for most. (1) Research shows that our brains are wired to think negatively 80% of the time, so the odds of starting the new year in a positive way are definitely against us. Nevertheless starting January with the intention of having a positive mindset can set the tone for the months ahead. According to Professor Norcross (2) New Years resolutions will always fail, but what else can we do to ensure that our new year is as fulfilled and prosperous as we wish it to be. Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert, (2) explains that goals for the year often fail because people tend not to frame their resolutions positively . How can we shift into this positive mindset and make sure that the new year is actually ‘new’ for us so we don’t ‘need’ to fall back into ruts that we desperately want to move away from?
Here are some uplifting ideas that may help you:
1. Reflect and Set Intentions
Practice Gratitude: Write down things you’re thankful for from the past year.
Vision Board: Create a visual representation of your goals and dreams.
Set SMART targets/ goals for yourself: Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals.
2. Focus on Health and Wellness
Exercise Regularly: Try a new workout and get out into he fresh air as much as possible.
Healthy Eating: Incorporate more whole foods into your diet.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Start with a daily 5-minute practice to centre yourself.
Journal: start a gratitude journal to fill in each day
3. Organise Your Space
Declutter: Tidy up your home to create a fresh and inspiring environment.
Plan Ahead: Use a planner or app to organise your life admin, calendar and goals for the coming year.
4. Connect with Others
Reach Out: Reconnect with friends or family you’ve lost touch with.
Random Acts of Kindness: Spread positivity through small gestures, like complimenting someone or donating to a cause.
5. Invest in Yourself
Read or Learn: Pick a book or course on a subject that excites you.
Try New Hobbies: Explore painting, cooking, or gardening to spark creativity.
6. Focus on Financial Wellness
Budget Review: Assess your finances and set savings goals.
Learn About Investing: Educate yourself on smart financial strategies.
7. Embrace Positivity and Gratitude
Daily Affirmations: Start each day with a positive mantra.
Journal: Write down one thing that made you smile each day.
Gratitude Journal
8. Explore New Experiences
Travel Locally or Abroad: Visit a new place to gain fresh perspectives.
Say Yes More Often: Be open to opportunities and adventures.
9. Give Back
Volunteer: Dedicate time to helping others in your community.
Charity: Donate to a cause that aligns with your values.
10. Focus on Self-Compassion
Let go of perfectionism and be kind to yourself.
Celebrate small wins along the way and treat yourself.
Start with just one or two of these ideas and build on them as the year progresses to ensure you having the best year yet!
From all of the AMBER team- we wish you a Happy New Year.