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New Year Journey
By: Jacqueline Roller, Psy.D.
New Year’s resolutions often include plans to exercise, stop smoking, lose weight, quit drinking alcohol, meditate, and spend more time with family. New Year’s Day arrives with strong resolves to live a healthier lifestyle, but many resolutions fail by February. Successful people understand that change is a journey.
The journey of change requires saying good-bye to old friends, having a map and tools in case of a breakdown, and plenty of fuel for the trip. Do not wait until New Year’s Day to make a resolution. Impulsive or poor planning is a set up for failure. It’s like packing a bag for a month long journey an hour before departure. Instead, take some time and reflect on 2007 and then choose one change that can enhance your life for 2008.
All journeys begin by saying good-bye to what will be left behind. Cigarettes, alcohol, binge foods, and other unhealthy behaviors have functioned as comforting friends. Saying good-bye and grieving an old friend is an important preparation for the journey of change. Many people find it helpful to write a good bye letter to these old friends before embarking on the journey.
The map for the journey must include signposts for replacing the old behaviors with something new. Instead of an after dinner drink, cigarette, or dessert you may choose to take a walk, drink some water, or meditate. Journeys often include bumps in the road or small collisions, and too many people give up when they meet an obstacle. Remember this is a journey. Your tools must include self- acceptance if you have a setback. Take companions on the journey who will support you and love you even if there are detours. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Find guides who can help you get back on the main road if you find yourself lost. Successful journeys are rarely taken alone and often include 3 steps forward and two steps backward.
Fuel your journey by tracking your progress. For example, write down what you eat, how many days you go without drinking or smoking, or how you spend time with loved ones. Tracking fuels your self confidence, honesty, and hope. Periodically rest, reflect, and celebrate your small victories!
Bon Voyage for 2008!
Click Here to learn more about Sarasota Florida Psychologist Jacqueline Roller, Psy.D.
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