5 Intentions To Set For The New Year

Every year this time, all we seem to hear about are New Year’s Resolutions … 

“Loose 10 Pounds in 10 Days”, “Cut Out All Carbs”. “Work out 7 Days a Week”. “Make this Much Money by the First Quarter”

What do all of these resolutions have in common? They are all quantitively measured. When we set goals that are based off of achieving numbers our focus becomes more on extrinsicvalue. This year, I encourage you to look inward and strive for goals that are intrinsicallymotivated.

Here are some suggestions (Hint, these goals are great ways to help reduce anxiety and depression) …. 

1. Use Kind Self-Talk

First off, what is “self-talk”?... You know, it’s that inner voice we all have in our heads, that’s typically not so nice. It’s the little judgments and mean thoughts we say to ourselves This year, try changing those negative comments into compassionate thoughts... 

Instead of saying “Gosh, I’m so fat and ugly, I’m never going to meet a guy” 

Try saying “Wow, that was a mean thought. I am beautiful and the right guy will come along for me when the time is right”. 

2. Practice Patience

Not just with yourself, but with others too. Try to be mindful in taking deep breaths so that you don’t jump to a reaction. Breath work is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety because it slows you down and helps you reach the rational mind. 

3. Get Involved in Your Community

The power of community is so strong. When we actively reach out to others, we feel less lonely and more connected. Try volunteering at a local non-profit, join a meet-up group or get involved in a boutique gym. Even just saying “hello” to your neighbor can make a world of difference! 

4. Trust the Journey

Anxiety loves to make us think 10 steps into the future. One minute we are thinking of plans to go out this weekend and then the next minute our thoughts run towards “What am I going to wear”, “I have to make sure not to eat too much or else I’ll look fat”, “What if she judges my outfit?- I’ll never be able to handle that”, “She’ll think I’m stupid”, “Ugh, there’s no point in going out”, “I have no friends”, “What’s wrong with me?” All while you’re still sitting in your office on a Monday…. 

Try to take a step back and remember what you are currently in control of. The more we doubt ourselves, the more opportunity for anxiety and depression to seep in. When you find yourself second guessing your choices, try to remember- you got this. 

5. Get a Therapist

Therapy is the best form of self-care. It is a safe space to simply take a look into how you process things and examine your worldview. A therapist can help you learn tools to better handle situations and develop healthier coping skills. Therapy isn’t just for people who can’t get out of bed or for people who hear voices. There is no level of severity for you to “qualify” as a therapy client. (That’s all just part of the stigma!)

I am wishing you all a healthy and intentional new year! 

What are your intentions for this new year? Let me know by leaving a comment below.

Also, feel free to send me an email at lisagoldlmsw@gmail.com if you’re interested in starting therapy!