Reframing Resolutions: From Restrictive Rules to Intentional Growth

As the new year approaches, many of us revisit the idea of resolutions. We often feel pressure to set rigid goals that are heavily influenced by societal expectations rather than our own desires and values. Instead of creating lasting change, this approach can leave us feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, or stuck in cycles of self-criticism. It’s time that we reframe our resolutions to honor our values, build on our strengths, and support growth that feels sustainable rather than perfect.

Why Traditional Resolutions Often Fail Us

Strict resolutions tied to shame or external pressure can negatively affect mental health and motivation. Additionally, this rigidity can create an all-or-nothing mindset that allows one slip up to engender feelings of failure, guilt, and insecurity which can often cause a total abandonment of the goal itself. When we shift the focus from perfection to progress, we can make resolutions a tool for transformation, self-discovery, and understanding.

Tips to Set Sustainable & Growth Oriented Resolutions

• Start with your values, not expectations: Identify the things that feel important to you in the upcoming year instead of what you feel pressured to achieve.

• Build on strengths that you already possess: Rather than trying to ‘fix’ or change yourself, try to create goals that expand on existing qualities.

• Set approach oriented goals: Focus on what you want to add to your life (connection, movement, creativity, nutrition, rest), rather than what you want to restrict or eliminate from your life.

• Focus on progress instead of perfection: Celebrating small wins along the way is much more motivating than waiting for a ‘perfect’ outcome.

• Allow your goals to evolve over time: Try to set resolutions that have room to transform alongside you as your life, priorities, and needs change throughout the year.

This year, let your resolutions be a guide for growth, not a measure of perfection!