Happy New Year, everyone! 🎉
Today marked our first group fitness session for the year, and it was absolutely fantastic to reconnect after a rejuvenating break. We couldn’t help but share our perspectives on New Years Resolutions and how we each approached reflection and planning for the year ahead. Taking a moment to celebrate our growth not only feels satisfying but also sets the stage for new goals and aspirations in the year ahead.
Now, I know many of us love the idea of New Year’s Resolutions – those big, audacious goals that promise a fresh start. But in our group the overwhelming consensus was that they just don’t work. More often than not, these resolutions lead to unrealistic expectations and a fizzling out of motivation by February.
But what if we were to shift our focus from resolutions to goals and, better yet, concentrate on building habits that will propel us towards success?
Why Resolutions Sometimes Fail and How to Reframe Them into Achievable Goals
We all know the drill – we start the year with a laundry list of resolutions, only to find ourselves overwhelmed and demotivated a few weeks later. The secret lies in reframing these resolutions into achievable goals. Think of it this way: resolutions are the destination, while goals are the roadmap that gets you there.
And here’s a handy tip to make the journey smoother: try habit stacking. Ever thought about practicing mindfulness while sipping your morning coffee or going for a walk while listening to your favourite podcast or audiobook? It’s a game-changer. By integrating new habits into existing routines, we can make positive changes without feeling like we’re sacrificing precious time.
Start Your Day Right with “Me Time”
Another game-changing move is starting your day with a bit of “me time.” Before you dive into the chaos of your to-do list and daily schedule, invest in your health with some morning stretches, a few sit-ups, or squats. It’s a small but powerful commitment that sets the tone for the rest of your day.
Struggle to get out of bed and keep hitting the snooze button on your alarm. Try turning off the alarm and spend 10 more minutes in bed listening to a guided morning meditation to start the day with positive thoughts, gratitude and optimism.
End Your Day Right with a “Daily Wrap Up”
Creating a routine that supports your mind and body to slowly transition into sleep mode is really valuable. There are many studies that show the negative impact of blue light from digital screens and how it stimulating they can be.
If your mind struggles to let go of the day that was or is pre occupied with the to do list of tomorrow, you may find journaling useful to get the thoughts and ideas out of your head and onto paper. There is something powerful about ticking off the tasks you have completed, and celebrating success. You could combine this task with a gratitude practice and include 3 things that you are grateful for each day.
Download our Evening Gratitude Journal for inspiration.
If you struggle with winding down at the end of the day and resort to scrolling on your device, a healthier alternative is to put on a Yoga Nidra guided meditation on Youtube or Insight Timer. My favourite is Stress Relief and Deep Relaxation with Chime Sound Bath .
Here are two of our favourite resources that can support you in your journey of personal growth and habit-building for 2024.
Great Resources to Kickstart Your Wellness Journey
1. [YouTube Video] 2024 Goal Setting Training by Vanessa Van Edwards Watch the video here
Vanessa’s insights on goal setting are truly inspiring. She emphasises focusing on achievements, using powerful language like “winning,” evaluating where we direct our energy, and selecting a guiding word or phrase for the year. It’s all about mindset and intention.
2. [Podcast] The Health Habit with Dr. Amantha Imber on the Podcast “Crappy to Happy” Listen to the podcast here
In this podcast, Dr. Amantha Imber shares valuable insights, including the importance of sleep, habit stacking enjoyable tasks with less enjoyable ones, and the writing a done list as part of your wind down routine before bed. It’s a treasure trove of practical advice for a healthier, happier you.
Our Personal Goals for 2024
As we embark on this wellness journey together, let’s lay out some of our own goals for the year:
- Create a Wellness Community in Samford: We aspire to build a community that shares fitness and health tools, strategies, and frameworks, fostering a supportive environment for everyone’s well-being.
- Strengthen Spiritual and Mindfulness Practices: Personal growth isn’t just about physical health. We’re committed to deepening our spiritual and mindfulness practices for a more holistic approach to wellness.
- Dive Deeper into Our Ikigai: Our passion lies in improving the health, fitness, and well-being of the incredible community around us. In 2024, we’re diving even deeper into our Ikigai, our reason for being.
Join Us on Fridays at 5:30 AM!
If you’re looking for a way to kickstart your fitness journey, our Friday 5:30 AM fitness group is the perfect opportunity. A 45-minute exercise session before work or school drop-off – it’s an energising way to start your day.
Ready to join us? Register here and let’s make 2024 the year of growth, positivity, and thriving together.
Here’s to a fantastic year ahead and your goals being on your list of accomplishments when you reflect at the end of 2024! 🌟
Related