Written by Stephanie Lezama
Ready to tackle the New Year with achievable goals that won’t leave you stressed out? If the whole resolution thing has got you feeling a bit overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Let’s take a realistic and relatable approach to goal-setting that makes your mental well-being the priority.
I remember every year; I would eat my grapes at midnight and magically think my goals would happen and be disappointed when they did not. This blog post explores a trauma-informed approach to goal-setting that prioritizes mental health and alleviates unnecessary pressure. For as long as I can remember, weight loss has been at the forefront of all my goals. For the last two years, I have taken a more mindful and realistic approach to setting goals and using language that is gentle. Weight loss now translates into eating nutritious food and getting movement three times a week. Goals do not have to be daunting; we need to change our perspective.
Step 1: Crafting Compassionate Goals
Let’s kick things off by redefining success. Say goodbye to those lofty, stress-inducing resolutions. Instead, let’s focus on positive, uplifting goals that are all about self-love and personal growth.
Example: This year I will incorporate movement into my routine three times a week for thirty minutes on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Step 2: Mindful Reflection: Triggers and Boundaries in Your Goal Journey
Explore how to navigate your goal-setting journey with mindfulness. Learn to identify triggers and set boundaries, creating a stress-free path toward personal growth. Think about why you are setting these goals and what comes up for you.
Action Step: Reflect on why you set goals. Identify triggers and set boundaries to make your journey stress-free.
Step 3: Flexibility Wins: Navigating the Ever-changing Landscape of Your Goals
Life can be unpredictable, right? Discover the power of flexibility in goal-setting. Adjust your goals without the guilt – every small step counts, and setbacks are just part of the journey. Miss a week? No big deal, pick up where you left off. Consistency is key, but so is starting again.
Action Step: Make a calendar or mark it down on your agenda
Step 4: Zen Vibes Only: Mindful Techniques for Goal Visualization
Keeping it simple and stress-free. Integrate easy mindfulness techniques into your goal visualization journey. No need for complicated exercises – just focus on achieving your goals without unnecessary stress. Visualize how you would feel once your goal is achieved. Visualize how it would look like.
Step 5: Small Steps, Big Wins: Breaking Down Goals for Your Well-being
Become a pro at breaking down those big goals into achievable steps. Celebrate small wins along the way, like getting movement three times a week for thirty minutes. We’ll make it fun and manageable – how about a dance party as part of your routine? Break it down, pick the days of the week. Start with 10 minutes and then increase the time every week and then incorporate different types of movement.
Step 6: Cheers to You: Celebrating Self-Compassion
Let’s end this journey by celebrating you. Cultivate self-compassion by acknowledging your wins, big or small. Positive recognition creates a nurturing environment for your mental well-being.
Stepping into the new year should be about growth, self-discovery, and feeling good about yourself. Join me on this journey to set realistic goals, prioritize self-love, and cultivate a mindset that’s all about you. Here’s to a New Year filled with achievable goals and a healthier, happier you!
For more information on trauma and healing, please visit our resources on our website.