Every year, people think about what their New Year’s resolution is going to be for the coming year. Going into 2021, rather than making the typical resolutions or goals, start small and reframe what you are asking of yourself. Reflecting on the main important areas of your life, and choosing one thing to do differently is a great way to begin to reset, and not get too overwhelmed in the times we are currently living in. These goals could be ones that you are just beginning or goals that you want to build onto.

Take some time to reflect on the following categories, and see what other thoughts come up in the process.

1. Personal Goals:  Ask yourself, “How have I taken care of myself this year? How has my mental and physical health been? What are some changes I would like to see? In what ways can I add self-care into my routine?
2. Relationship Goals: How do you feel about your current relationships? Are there friendships or relationships that you want to change or be more intentional about? What does that look like for you?
3. Professional Goals: What might be a few professional goals for this year? Chose one part of your professional life, or a professional vision you have to focus on and identify a way to change it in order to make it work for you. Find ways that interest you to enhance your personal development and growth.
4. Prioritize Self-care: Spending time on personal well-being or self-care is something that we do not do enough of because we think that there are more important things that need to be done. If you do not take the time to take care of yourself, decompress, and clear your head you will not be able to effectively help others or complete the tasks that you need to get done. Spending time on personal well-being is just another way of saying take time for yourself. Go for a walk, read a book that you enjoy, write in a journal, spend time with friends, or go see a movie — anything that will allow you to take time for YOU.

 It is so important to make memories and share stories. We do not know how long we have with the ones we love so do not put off until tomorrow what you can do today. Of course, we are not always able to be around our family and friends physically, but try to take time out to make phone calls check-in, or write letters, or send cards. Do something in your own way to show the people that you care about that they are in your thoughts. Doing the simplest things are often the things that mean the most.

According to Huffington Post, only 8% of people actually complete their New Year resolutions. Keep your goals realistic, set small achievable goals, or milestones within your bigger overarching goal. Remember, you can always make a “resolution” — it does not just have to be at the beginning of the year. It can be at the beginning of the month or at any time. Continue growing, changing, and adapting every day. Again, make your goals realistic and achievable. Most importantly,  have fun, and enjoy yourself.  Happy New Year!

Featured image taken by Oleg Zaicev from Pexels