From the CEO of New Mornings – Kelly Dernehl
As January slips into February, the shine of New Year’s resolutions often dims. We start with ambitious goals, fuelled by the hope of change, only to feel the weight of unmet expectations as the year unfolds. If your carefully set goals have already slipped away, take heart—you’re not alone. Research from fitness app “MyFitnessPal” found that around 70% of Australians will scrap their resolutions by the end of January. And it’s no wonder. Resolutions often come with immense pressure to change overnight, as though there is some magic switch that will change many things in your life and in your mind, which is flicked as the clock ticks over from December 31, into January 1. It leaves little room for life’s unpredictability.
Abandoning a resolution doesn’t mean failure. Life is complex, and unforeseen challenges can derail the best-laid plans. Instead of viewing this as a setback, embrace it as a reminder to practice self-compassion. Growth isn’t linear, and it’s okay to revise or release goals that no longer serve you, knowing that sometimes, the most profound change comes when we give ourselves permission to take the pressure off.
To nurture yourself, focus on self-care strategies that don’t depend on grand resolutions. Start small and keep it simple: stand outside in the sun with your eyes closed for 5 minutes a day, soaking in the beautiful fresh coast breeze here on the Central Coast. Walk along the beach and feel the sand between your toes or stand barefoot in your backyard or in a park, and ground yourself, practicing mindfulness, or simply rest. Reframe your goals into intentions, prioritizing progress over perfection. Seek joy in small victories, like a walk in nature or a quiet cup of tea. Spend a few minutes daily checking in with your emotions and energy levels. Reflect on what truly matters to you—not what you think you should achieve. Simplify goals into small, achievable steps, celebrating every win, no matter how small.
Instead of a resolution, I encourage you to choose a single word for the year, which can foster clarity and intention. Unlike rigid goals, a word acts as a guiding theme, encouraging flexibility and growth. Whether it’s “balance,” “courage,” or “peace,” this approach keeps you focused without pressure. It’s a gentle reminder to align actions with values, cultivating meaningful progress throughout the year.
Remember, your worth isn’t tied to productivity or goal achievement. By releasing the pressure to be perfect, you create space for authenticity and grace—a mindset that sustains not just resolutions, but your well-being year-round.