Rethinking Your Yearly Resolutions

Back before a global pandemic changed all our lives forever, January 1 was a day reserved for self-reflection and resolutions. Whether it was boldly declaring your goals online or writing them down and tucking them away somewhere safe, the new year meant it was time to let bygones be bygones and start again with a clean slate. The future was yours for the taking and endless possibilities lay ahead.

“I’m going to finally sign up for spin class.”

“This is the year I’m running that marathon!”

“That’s it, I’m signing up for online dating!”

“I’m booking that ticket to Tibet and climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro.”

“This year is the year I finally write my novel.”

“This is the year of me!”

Well, if 2020 taught us anything it’s that life sometimes has other plans. Instead of making lofty resolutions this year that may result in disappointment, consider focusing on smaller, more tangible ones that you can feel good about accomplishing despite what 2021 serves up.

Need some ideas?

Resolve to be kinder to yourself

For many of us, 2020 was the year we learned some things are out of our control. One thing you can control? How you treat yourself. Life can get stressful, but taking care a few minutes a day to check in with yourself is the ultimate act of kindness. Whether it’s taking a moment to just breathe or saying no to situations that cause you more stress than happiness, treat yourself with kindness this year.

Take a minute to unplug and unwind

We know, we know. You’re feeling socially isolated as it is, plus you have to-do’s to tackle and emails to reply to…the lists go on. However, the simple act of turning off ALL your screens can go a long way when it comes to helping reduce stress. Resolve to turn off your phone for 10, 20, an hour every day (or once a week) and allow yourself to be truly present.

Stop comparing yourself to others

The FOMO (fear of missing out) was real in 2020, even when everyone was in quarantine! Find yourself feeling blue after scrolling through the ‘gram? Take mini social detoxes throughout the week and focus on what you’re thankful for. Keep catching yourself checking in on social media? Consider taking social news apps off your phone; the added step of going to a browser on your phone can give you a few extra seconds to reconsider whether it’s really a good idea to check.

Do what feels right for you and your body

You don’t have to run a marathon or attend daily spin classes to prove you’re taking care of yourself in the new year. Only you know what feels right for you and your body. Be sure to check in with yourself and don’t overdo it if you feel like it’s compromising your health or well-being.

Forget about making a resolution

Remember at the end of the day, January 1 is just that…a day. Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t feel like making a list of goals. You doing you is the best gift you can give yourself!

Schedule a routine check-up

Your daily routine might look a little different these days, but getting a routine physical should still be, well, routine. Most people only think of seeing a medical provider when something is already wrong. But checking in on the regular can help set you up for a healthier future. Book a virtual check-up easily with Carbon Health.

Liked what you read? Learn more by downloading the Carbon Health app or visiting carbonhealth.com.

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