The resolution revolution by Aly Chapman
As we move from 2022, we begin to take stock of the year that has passed. A year of emerging from a pandemic, piecing ourselves back together and recovery. It’s been a year to breathe again but it hasn’t been an easy year. In fact, 2022 at times has shown us that the struggles don’t necessarily go away, they just evolve and change.
As you wake up in 2023 are you feeling positive about a fresh, new year? Hoping things will be different this time, feeling refreshed and ready to take on and attack new challenges. Or perhaps you’re feeling nervous about what this year will bring. Either way I am sure, as tradition dictates, that you will be thinking about the personal changes you can make and perhaps even making those dreaded ‘New Year’s Resolutions’.
As a wellness and resilience coach, I often meet people who are looking to make positive life changes. They are stuck in a rut; they don’t like the habits they have fallen into, and they want to be able to face the challenges that life brings with more strength and resolve. Professor Marty Linsky says that as humans we fear loss more than we value gain so when you look at the change you would like to implement, ensure that you continually tell yourself how much value you will gain and how much better life will be.
My advice is always to start with one. One thing, one change, one goal. The bigger the gap between where you are and where you want to be, the more hopeless that will feel. So give yourself some stepping stones and play the long game.
For example; If you want to exercise more in 2023, first look up your local gym (one step), then dust off your workout clothes (two steps), then sign up for a class (three steps), then find a friend to go with to keep you accountable (four steps), block out the time in your calendar (five steps), wash out your water bottle (six steps)….. All of these are steps towards your goal and a reason to be proud of your achievement. And if you don’t do it this week, try again next week!
Don’t try and eat the elephant all at once, start with one bite at a time. And by the end of 2023 you’ll be looking back at a change well done.
Written by Aly Chapman (registered nurse, wellness and resilience coach, and counsellor)
