12/30/2025
❌ Why I don’t believe in New Year’s resolutions ❌
2026 is almost here, and I’m here to remind you that you get to make your end-of-year reflection your own—without following trends.
Historically, New Year’s resolutions can often be shallow or overly optimistic. We might be influenced by what society says is a palatable or desirable goal—what we “should” be doing—or we might be listening to external voices rather than engaging in deep reflection about what goals would actually serve our highest good.
These goals often aren’t accompanied by the proper support needed to actually follow through. There’s also frequently a lack of deeper reflection around what aspects of our lifestyle or systems need to change in order for these goals to stick. This can be especially challenging for neurodivergent folks who struggle with the executive functioning skills required to set, plan for, and achieve goals—or for folks under significant stress, perhaps even in survival mode, where goals can feel more like a luxury. This often leads to disappointment, shame, and disconnection from ourselves.
There’s also the fact that it’s winter—and as beings of nature, we’re really meant to be slowing down, nesting, and retreating inward during this time of year (hello, hibernation). The Spring Equinox is a more energetically aligned time to begin taking action on specific lifestyle goals.
So instead of resolutions, I love the idea of setting New Year’s themes.
Think about what your body, mind, and soul want more of—and less of. What changes or shifts would truly serve your highest good? What would genuinely nourish you in mind, body, and spirit?
Here are some recent examples:
-less people-pleasing
-more boundaries
-less caring what people think
-more creativity
-less rushing and over-busyness
-more slowing down
-less judgment and criticism
-more cooking
-less ignoring my own needs
-more yoga
You might consider using Dr. Brené Brown’s Wholehearted Living Guideposts for inspiration when choosing your 2026 themes. Once you identify a theme, you can use it as an anchor to guide your decisions throughout the year. That’s how lasting shifts happen.
✨Declare your themes in the comments!✨
