New year is my favourite time because it means new beginnings. It doesn’t come without some new year resolutions anxiety though.
I’m an optimistic person at my core, and although anxiety is never far away it’s always fun to see what new people will be joining our lives and all the new things that will bring with them (shiny presents, new relationships, etc.) I can practically feel a new start coming, alive with possibilities!
The new year also means new resolutions for those wanting to improve themselves in some way or another: whether it’s losing weight, quitting smoking or blogging more often (subtle hint, hahaha).
These goals and self-improvements are often high on most people’s lists at this time of the year. We want to change something about ourselves – we know we need to – and we want it now. This pressure to change and be better often leads to anxiety for a lot of women.
For some people, the new year is a time of great hope and expectation. They set goals that are achievable and realistic, like “I will work out three times a week” or “I will meal prep every Sunday”. These women are able to approach their new year with positive anticipation, clarity and excitement.
Then there are the women who have anxiety around new year’s resolutions. Their minds are swamped with thoughts like “What if I can’t do it? What if I’m not good enough?” This type of thinking often leads to self-doubt and negative self-talk. These women may find it difficult to come up with goals, or they might set goals that are too high and unrealistic, setting themselves up for failure. Boy oh boy do I feel you if you’re in this category!
As a result, many women with anxiety feel discouraged and overwhelmed before they’ve even started. They may feel like they’re not good enough or that they’ll never be able to change. This can lead to them giving up on their resolutions altogether, which only leads to more anxiety and feelings of failure.
So what’s the solution? How can women with anxiety approach the new year in a positive way?
Being kind to yourself is essential when it comes to conquering your fear of failure and new year resolutions anxiety.
When you’re kind to yourself, you accept yourself for who you are – flaws and all. This means that you’re more likely to forgive yourself when you make a mistake, and you’re more likely to have compassion for yourself during tough times.
Being kind to yourself also means that you’re more likely to be patient with yourself. You’ll be more likely to take things slowly and not put too much pressure on yourself. This is especially important when it comes to changing longstanding habits or behaviours.
If you’re struggling to come up with goals, that’s okay! It’s normal to feel anxious about making changes – especially big ones. Remember that you’re new to this too.
When you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, take a deep breath and remind yourself that it’s new year’s resolution! This is a great opportunity to make the new year count and there’s no time like the present. Resolutions can be broken down into smaller steps so you’re not trying to do everything at once. Think about what your most urgent issues are and set goals for those first. This will help limit any overwhelm or anxiety around making new changes in your life.
It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to change everything overnight – it takes time!
Weight loss is something many people struggle with and a major cause of new year resolutions anxiety. But losing weight slowly over time is more sustainable than dropping a ridiculous bunch of kilos in a week. Same goes for anything else you might be trying to change about yourself. Start small and work your way up.
Finally, be proud of yourself – exactly as you are – new year resolutions anxiety and all!
When you achieve a goal, even if it’s something small, give yourself a pat on the back. Celebrate your victory, because it’s one step closer to your ultimate goal. Every accomplishment deserves recognition, no matter how big or small it may seem.
The new year is a time for new beginnings and new resolutions. For women with anxiety, this can often lead to feelings of doubt and overwhelm. However, there are ways to overcome new year resolutions anxiety in a positive way. Be kind to yourself, break down your goals into smaller steps, and celebrate each accomplishment along the way. With these tips, you’re sure to have a successful new year – anxiety-free!
To help you along the way
I have 2 free meditations that will help you overcome your anxiety about making your goals happen this year.
My Grounding meditation will help you feel more balanced and in control of your life. It’s a simple, powerful technique to help you relax, focus and get things done.
My White Light Protection meditation is a powerful energy healing meditation that will help you to feel protected and supported by Universal healing light.
Both excellent meditations to listen to, day and night, to get your new year started off in the right way!