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If you’re making resolutions, I have some advice. Not about what they should BE or anything. But we’ve been keeping a family resolution journal for 20 years, and I have some thoughts on how to make them helpful, achievable and not a source of stress. (brief thread)
1. Make each resolution a goal to complete sometime in 2021. Not in January or every day, etc. Think more bucket list than life-altering mandate, though some goals obviously take time to work up to.
2. Make it achievable and unpunishing. “Stop eating junk food” isn’t going to happen. But “try to eliminate palm oil from my groceries” gives you something solid to work on and get educated about.
3. Make goals that reflect the way you want to live, not some person you wish you were. You’re amazing. You don’t need an overhaul. But now’s a good time to think about small habits that expand on your principles.
4. It’s ok to be vague! Every year I add the same resolution: Learn a new skill. It reminds me that life takes you in unexpected directions and you just make the most of it.
5. Numbers can also be good. Like “go camping 3 times” or “attempt 5 ambitious recipes i’ve never made.” These give you structure to plan around. By comparison, “Travel more” or “Cook at home more” aren’t easy to keep in your head.
6. Include goals for volunteering, donating, etc. This is a great time to schedule commitments with nonprofits, political causes etc. And once you start getting involved, countless new opportunities will arise.
Anyway, I hope those help. Most importantly, don’t let resolutions be a source of stress. Be kind—and honest—with yourself.
Don’t try to change who you are. Just try to find small ways to be MORE the person you are.
Don’t try to change who you are. Just try to find small ways to be MORE the person you are.