For just about everybody I’ve spoken to, this year has already started out different. Usually we start out the new year motivated to leave the past behind and ready to move forward to a new start. Social media is filled with lots of “New Years Resolution” posts and a bunch of “New Year, New You” articles. But after the past few years, many people just aren’t feeling it this year. Many are having a hard time feeling motivated to get out there and get back into our post-holiday routines, much less even think about creating new goals for the new year.
And so much more in our community where we are dealing with our additional challenges. This has become a regular topic of conversation with almost all of my clients. And I get it. Those new goals can seem so big and overwhelming when it can be hard to feel motivated to do much more than the basics.
So today let go of perfectionism, or the “all or nothing” thinking, and just focus on the little things. Little changes can go a long way to build a foundation of self compassion and self care. Once we have those foundations in place it’s much easier and more natural to add on some of those other things.
Start out with:
1. Create a morning routine. Take some time to just breathe and start your day from a place of calm and ease. Set some intentions for self care before you start thinking about diving into that to-do list.
2. Be aware of your self-talk. Let go of judgement and just be aware. How can you speak to yourself with more self compassion, like you would a good friend?
3. Be aware of what you read and watch. Is it stress-inducing or does it bring you peace and calm? Does it feed feelings of fear and separation, or lead to feelings of joy and connection?
4. Plan a few minutes to check in with yourself several times during the day. Maybe step outside for a few minutes and look around. Or just stop and take several deep breaths. How are you doing? What are you feeling? Be aware of how it feels to set aside all the worries and just be present for even a few minutes.
For me, I’ve decided to stop several times during the day and just step outside in the back yard. Just a few minutes in nature can really change my mood. I can sometimes hear myself thinking that I should be getting out for a longer walk, or fetting some “real” exercise, but surprisingly enough, a couple of minutes can be amazing for my outlook. It doesn’t need to be a half hour walk at the park, or even a walk around the block – just a few minutes will do the trick.
So rather than feeling like you’re already running behind, prioritize some time today to do just a few little things to check in with yourself and honor yourself. Let go of judgement and focus on self care and self compassion.
