Beyond Resolutions: New Year, Gentle Start

“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.” ~James Clear

Happy New Year!

Okay, now that that’s out of the way, are you over all of the “new year, new me” talk yet? 

I’m here with a different perspective about how to start a new year. Maybe you weren’t satisfied with how last year ended, and feel too hopeless and discouraged to set any goals for this new year. Maybe you have already set new years resolutions, and are crushing goals related to your mental health, physical health, or finances. Either way, I have some suggestions for how to approach a new year using a gentle, positive method. 

Gentle Alternatives to Setting New Year’s Resolutions

Journal about all of the things that you loved or appreciated in the year before and decide how you can recreate those moments in the new year.

This suggestion comes from a mindset of gratitude. In reflecting on all that went well, all that you enjoyed, and the love that you experienced, you are creating a foundation for the next 12 months to be more of the same.

Write a letter as your future self at the end of the upcoming year. Brag about all of the things you accomplished and experiences that you had.

This will help to fuel your feelings of confidence. You are visualizing the things that you want to experience happening and describing how you were able to make it all happen.

Set at least one or two intentions that focus on self-fulfillment instead of only personal development.

From finances to fitness, to breaking habits or starting new ones, it’s very easy to become fixated on how you will make things better…which means that it’s all too easy to be in a mindset of lack. Try focusing your energy on things you’d like to enhance or add more of into your life.

No matter where you find yourself at the start of this new year—whether you’re grappling with disappointment or riding a wave of success—I hope that these gentle activities for approaching the new year offer a compassionate perspective and a beneficial alternative to setting goals that support both your ambitions and your inner peace. I hope that you are able to focus on your mental health and well-being all 2025!

Keep prioritizing your mental health!

As Always, Be Well!

~Jessica Herd, LMHC

P.S.

Do you have mental health goals for the new year? I’d love to help you achieve them! Schedule a consultation call with me and let’s get started!

Resources:

National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial “988”

Text Crisis Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services) Hotline: 1-800-662-4357

Domestic Violence Support Hotline: 1-800-621-HOPE (4673)

Caregiver Help Desk: 1-855-227-3640