01/01/2026
🧠 Why New Year’s Resolutions Often Don’t Work (and What Actually Helps)
As a therapist, I often see people come into January feeling pressure to “fix” themselves overnight — motivated by shoulds (“I should exercise more”, “I should be less anxious”), and by a belief that a new year can magically make change easier. 
But here’s the thing:
❗ Resolutions fail because they’re usually built on unrealistic pressure, vague goals, and the idea that change must happen instantly. 
Our brains aren’t wired for dramatic overnight transformation. They change through small, consistent, repeatable actions — not grand declarations. 
✨ What I see work MUCH better:
🌿 Shift from resolutions to intentions
Instead of “I must transform,” try “I want to nurture stability in my life”. This feels more compassionate and sustainable. 
🪄 Break big goals into tiny steps
Small habits build momentum and strengthen neural pathways over time — it’s not about perfection, it’s about consistency. 
📅 Focus on values, not outcomes
Ask yourself — what kind of person do I want to be? Goals tied to values stick longer than arbitrary targets. 
🧘♀️ Expect discomfort and setbacks
Change is nonlinear. Planning for obstacles (and giving yourself grace) makes you more likely to keep going. 
💬 Remember: change doesn’t start Jan 1 — it starts when you’re ready!
