Realistic Resolutions for Your Mental Health
What if your 2022 resolution is not to have a resolution for 2023?
A study on New Year’s resolutions found that about 40% of Americans set resolutions at the start of the year. Within six months, more than half have failed. It is really intriguing because we all want to join the “New Year, New You” bandwagon. In the moment, we desire to make positive and impactful changes in our lives. However, how can we make the changes last? How do we become so creative, calculated, and consistent that we won’t need a special time of year to create resolutions?
Be Realistic.
Take time to reflect on desired changes. Realistically determine what you can immediately start to achieve that change. Contemplate taking smaller, more achievable steps towards your goals. There is a greater chance that you will keep them.
Make Time for Self-care.
Don’t wait until the last month of the year to decide you are important! Check in with yourself often if not daily. This is not the area to negotiate! Find self-care activities that make you happy and schedule them as part of your daily routine.
Turn It Off!
Be aware of how much time you spend browsing online or watching tv. How does it impact your mood? How much time and attention do you give to media? Spending too much time watching tv, on your phone or computer can scientifically impact your sleep patterns, your relationships, creativity, and even lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. Can a portion of this time be allotted somewhere more useful such as self-care, finishing a project, or sleep?
Go to Sleep.
Studies show that sleep and mental health are connected. In fact, most people with major depression also experience a sleep problem. Try to go to sleep a little bit earlier every night and give your body the rest it needs. Your body and brain must reset to restart!
By following these simple four tips, we can improve our mental health. Even if we begin monthly, weekly, or daily, we make significant improvement to our lives. We free up mental space from white noise. We are rested and have more time for creativity. When practiced often, we develop the discipline to become calculated and creative mentally. A new year resolution is strategically transformed into a positive daily habit.
Dr. La Tonya Powers is a mother, pastor, author, entrepreneur, and community leader. Dr. Powers was destined for what she loves to do, and that is helping people whether in or outside the walls of the church. Need strategy? Navigate to www.tfunow.com and book your appointment today!