Replace New Year’s Resolutions With New Year’s Rituals
Almost everyone is familiar with setting New Year’s resolutions when January arrives, and almost just as familiar with not achieving those resolutions for a sustained and meaningful period of time. According to U.S. News & World Report, almost 80% of people are unable to stick to their resolutions. That’s why I want to propose a different approach to try this year: identify one new ritual you want to begin incorporating into your life.
The Difference Between Rituals and Resolutions
So what exactly is the difference between the age old resolution and a ritual. The dictionary defines a resolution as “a firm decision to do or not to do something”. In contrast, a ritual is defined as “a series of actions or type of behavior regularly and invariably followed by someone”. These are very different concepts and have very different implications for promoting lasting change. Resolutions are often tied to lofty, broad goals like losing weight, taking better care of oneself, or not yelling as much. They are very well-intentioned goals, but what makes them so hard to achieve is their lack of specificity and the fact that they overlook the daily steps it takes to accomplish them. A ritual, on the other hand, is making a commitment to a small, specific action that is done daily. Because it is a daily act it must be defined clearly and cannot be too broad. An easy way to think about it is like brushing your teeth. Most people have no problem sticking to the daily habit of brushing their teeth. The hope is that you can identify a new ritual that helps you achieve something important to you which can ultimately become as doable and consistent as daily teeth brushing.
Examples of Rituals For Improved Well-being
Here are a few examples of the types of rituals that fit the bill as specific, doable, sustainable, meaningful, and daily:
- Each night write down 5 things you are grateful for to promote increased gratitude.
- Meditate for 10 minutes each morning to promote a peaceful state of mind to start the day.
- Walk for 30 minutes each day to promote improved physical health.
- Kiss your partner every night before you go to bed to promote intimacy.
- Journal for 10 minutes each evening to promote increased insight and self awareness.
These are just a few examples to get your own ideas flowing. The options are endless, but the most important thing is that you are identifying a clear ritual that you intend to do every single day. This will ensure it truly becomes a lasting part of your life!
Schedule an Appointment for Therapy In the South Bay
As a therapist in Hermosa Beach, I strive to help my clients achieve meaningful and enduring change in their lives. if you are interested in having the supportive space of therapy, just give me a call at 310.892.2572 to get started!