Something that I love about the New Year more than just the celebrations, winter break, and cute Instagram posts is how it gives me a fresh start. My family, like most others, has a habit of going over our New Year’s Goals/Resolutions on January 1st during lunch. In addition, we also look back at the previous year’s goals on December 31st to see what we’ve achieved, close to reaching, or just completely forgot about.
Let’s talk about the importance of setting not goals, not resolutions, or not any of those icky words that can almost feel like a burden sometimes. Let’s talk about the importance, rather, of making wishes or creating dreams that instead motivate you to what you want to accomplish in 2022 and the years to come.
When you hear the word “wish”, what do you imagine? I see the ribbons, balloons, and other decorations of a birthday along with the scrumptious cake and gorgeous candles sitting on top. Or I see a shooting star that glimmers through the sky. I even see something I wish on every day - a clock that says 11:11. Think about it though, when you hear that word, what do you think of it?
It’s different with words like “goals” and “resolutions”. It’s something you must reach or else your boss/teammates/parents is likely going to be mad. It’s a struggle because there isn’t any motivation. When you think of these words compared to “dream” or “wish”, is there a difference in the vibes or feelings that come with it?
THAT’S the difference that makes the difference when we figure out what we want to do. It’s a small word change, sure, but it changes the connotation in a snap of a finger. If you’re yet to make your goals, good! Try following the upcoming to see if they help in any way. If you’ve already completed them, a simple word change or so won’t do much harm, right? :)
Steps to Follow
Don’t be too stiff in your goals. You need the flexibility to change things if you have to and that shouldn’t stop you from still achieving it. My dad always says, “If you’re rigid in your goals, you may meet them, but you will not surpass them.”
Set motivators or rewards. That’s pretty self-explanatory, but here’s an example anyway. If you plan on losing weight, tell yourself that you can change up your style or get a wardrobe change. Motivation is the key between getting from start to finish.
Lastly, rephrase that which you want to achieve. You’re not setting a goal or resolution. You’re making a wish or creating a dream. You’re hoping for something.
My goal is to lose 10 pounds by September so that I can run in the marathon.I wish to lose 10 pounds by September so that I can run in the marathon.My resolution is to quit eating desserts.I hope to learn the balance of eating a healthy amount of sweets rather than completely quitting.
Setting wishes/dreams are easier said than done, but when you really want something, nothing will get in the way. Be flexible. Find your motivation. Aim for the galaxy and you’ll end up among the stars.
I wish you all the best in 2022. Let’s strive to be better people with kinder hearts and more positive intentions. We’ve been in this together, and we are now too.
To 2021 🥂 I’ll miss you, but dreams are about to come true…
Thanks for reading! Happy New Year to you and all your loved ones. Here’s to the new beginnings and awaited endings, too <3