It’s that time of the year again when so many make resolutions about health, finances, family, professional or personal growth, or any areas where change or development is desired. I’ve made them plenty of times, with mixed results, but they haven’t always been what has led to lasting change in my life.   Change and growth can be so rewarding and exciting, though most of us agree that it isn’t always easy, even if you have taken that step in January that so many take to set resolutions as we launch into a new year. Kudos to those who DO find success with New Year’s resolutions.    There is NO shade thrown on anyone successfully achieving desired change through making resolutions.    It’s great, however, to look at other alternatives for those who might not feel the vibe of going the resolution route. There CAN be alternative pathways to success and you are worth the investment of finding a pathway that works for YOU!

Below are some alternatives to the traditional New Year’s resolutions to consider trying. This is not an exhaustive list; it is just a few ideas for starters. The important thing to remember is to discover what works for YOU!   

Setting Intentions

Instead of specific resolutions or goals, consider setting broader “intentions” for how you want to approach the year. Consider incorporating more gratitude in your life or perhaps being more mindful of finances are areas you want to work on.   While goal setting and being specific is great and is an important part of change, maybe a little “pre-work” is needed, and setting the stage using intentions is a more effective strategy before diving into specific, purpose-driven goal and resolution setting.    “Practicing gratitude more often” is a great example of an intention that might later lead to a more specific goal.

Find a Focus Word

Choose a word or phrase – or even two or three – that captures what you hope to change in your life or a trait you would like to develop further. For example, “Healthy Living” or “Career Improvement” might be your focus words. Put them on Post-it notes or somewhere you will see them daily.  THIS is a method I have used for several years and it really works for me!

Developing Monthly Themes

Consider choosing a monthly theme and area of focus.   This may work well if you have a few areas where you want to see change.   You could focus on stress management in January and heart-healthy meals in February.    You may find yourself on a roll and on your way to changes in areas you hadn’t given much thought to when trying to plug in ideas for different months of the year.

Creating a Vision Board

Think about creating a vision board with pictures, quotes, and anything inspiring. Having a tangible visual that you can see that puts your goals, dreams, and inspirations right in front of you can be very powerful and a great motivator.   

Starting a Journal

Contemplate whether starting a journal might help reflect on areas where you would like to improve throughout the year and where you can document your progress and new ideas that come to mind when you least expect it. Journaling can create focus and also serve as motivation to keep moving forward.   This might also include “gratitude journaling,” where you reflect on the positives in your life, which may inspire and cultivate motivation and action toward areas needing change.

Whether you choose to set New Year’s resolutions or embark on an alternate path to change and growth, give yourself a pat on the back. Wanting positive change and growth for yourself is commendable! Whichever route best leads you to success is the “right” path for you. You. Are. Worth. It.