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You are here: Home / Uncategorized / Embracing Grace: Handling New Year’s Resolutions setbacks

Embracing Grace: Handling New Year’s Resolutions setbacks

January 29, 2025 by April Smith English

As we usher in the New Year, many of us set ambitious resolutions with the hope of creating positive changes in our lives. However, it’s common for these resolutions to falter, leaving us feeling discouraged and frustrated. As we continue you in the New Year, I want to offer you some thoughts on how to navigate the journey of New Year’s resolutions with grace and compassion.

Understanding the Nature of Resolutions

It’s important to recognize that resolutions are not about achieving perfection. They are about setting intentions to improve aspects of our lives. When we inevitably encounter obstacles or setbacks, it doesn’t mean we’ve failed. Instead, these moments are opportunities to learn and grow.

One of the key elements in making resolutions stick is consistency rather than relying solely on motivation. Motivation can be fleeting and unpredictable, while consistency builds habits that can withstand fluctuations in our emotional and physical states. Start small and focus on sustainable, manageable changes that can be maintained over time.

For example, if your resolution is to exercise more, commit to a realistic and consistent schedule rather than an all-or-nothing approach. Even short, regular workouts can make a significant difference over time.

Resetting and Refining Goals

When resolutions don’t go as planned, it’s helpful to reset and refine your goals. Reflect on what worked and what didn’t and adjust your approach accordingly. Break down larger goals into smaller, more achievable steps, and celebrate each milestone along the way.

Remember, it’s okay to change your goals as your circumstances and priorities evolve. Flexibility is a strength, not a weakness.

Progress, Not Perfection

A helpful perspective to have is that progress, not perfection, truly matters. Every small step forward is a victory, and each effort you make is valuable. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge the progress you’ve made, no matter how incremental it may seem.

Give yourself grace and practice self-compassion and understand that setbacks are a natural part of any journey. Instead of dwelling on what you perceive as failures, focus on what you’ve learned and how you can apply those lessons moving forward.

It’s also beneficial to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if you’re struggling to maintain your resolutions. Having a support system can provide encouragement and accountability, making it easier to stay on track.

New Year’s resolutions are a wonderful opportunity to set positive intentions for the year ahead. By prioritizing consistency over motivation, resetting and refining goals, and embracing progress over perfection, you can create lasting change in your life.

Remember to offer yourself grace and celebrate each step of your journey. After all, it’s the consistent, small efforts that ultimately lead to meaningful and sustainable growth.

Wishing you a year filled with progress, self-compassion, and personal growth.

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April Smith English
MFT Associate* [she/her]

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