Hey friends! It’s that time of year again when we feel all pumped up to try new things, set fresh goals, and make those classic New Year’s resolutions. But let’s be real—how often do we stick with them? Six weeks in (or maybe six days), and they’ve often gone out the window. Honestly, did any of them ever really stand a chance?
For me, resolutions have always felt like a burden. I’ve made them year after year, but my top resolution? It was usually about shedding pounds. Spoiler alert: I’ve never fulfilled a single one in the nearly two decades I’ve been at it. So this year, I’m switching things up. I’m ditching resolutions altogether. I’m not bashing the tradition, but I’d rather focus my energy on something that will actually last. Instead, I’m committing to taking actionable steps toward a lifestyle shift.
Make S.M.A.R.T Plans, Not Just Resolutions
Now, you might wonder if New Year’s resolutions are the same as making plans. Not quite! Resolutions are often just wishes or hopes, while S.M.A.R.T plans are the solid foundations for real change.
S.M.A.R.T stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-based. When you create plans with these criteria, you’re setting yourself up for success. For example, let’s look at my usual resolution: I’m going to lose weight this year.
- Specific: Sure, losing weight sounds specific, but how? Am I going to exercise more? Eat healthier? There’s nothing concrete about just saying “lose weight.”
- Measurable: A loss is a loss, right? But if you have a lot to lose, one pound a week can feel insignificant. Without a clear way to measure success, I was destined for disappointment.
- Attainable: Maybe I thought, “I’ll lose 75 pounds in six months.” That’s 12.5 pounds a month or about 3.25 pounds a week. For someone with a personal chef and trainer, sure, that might be doable. For the rest of us? Not so much.
- Time-Based: Saying “I’ll lose weight this year” doesn’t give me a timeline. Should I start in January or just go on a crash diet after Thanksgiving?
Clearly, there’s a big difference between a vague New Year’s resolution and actionable steps to create a lifestyle change. And if things don’t go as planned, remember—it’s all good!
This Year (And Forever) I’m Ditching This Tradition
Honestly, I’m not sure who came up with New Year’s resolutions and how they became so frustrating. What’s supposed to inspire change often leads to disappointment. But here’s the kicker—you don’t have to make resolutions! It took me almost 20 years to figure that out. Growing up in a hustle culture can lead to some wild assumptions.
If making resolutions brings you happiness, go for it! But if they just make you feel bad, let them go. Don’t let the commitment to a resolution overshadow its positive intentions. Remember, this practice is just a tool to help you live your best life, however that looks for you.
Now, I’m off to make plans focused on mental health advocacy, body positivity, and being the best mom I can be. Also, if you’re looking for support, check out the free sperm donor matching group at Make a Mom’s Facebook group. Plus, if you’re interested in at-home insemination, Make a Mom offers the only reusable option, and you can see how it works by visiting their page here. For those considering artificial insemination, Make a Mom’s Impregnator kit is a great resource. And if you want to learn more about fertility, check out this informative blog here.
In summary, this year, let’s commit to S.M.A.R.T. goals that inspire genuine change instead of superficial resolutions.
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