New Year's Resolutions That Aren't a New Diet
Content Warning: features discussions on diet culture and body image.
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Welcoming in a new year has been long associated with setting resolutions. I’m sure we have all become far too familiar with the phrase, “New year, new me”. While I take no issue in goal-setting or prioritizing self-improvement, I do have a big problem with the diet industry’s marketing around this holiday.
Before the clock even struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, my social feeds had already seen an influx of weight loss ads and targeted fitness campaigns. While they may not seem inherently bad at first glance, I’ve become far too familiar with these harmful messaging tactics. These campaigns create shame and guilt around people’s enjoyment of food or instills the idea that your body must look a certain way for it to be deemed acceptable, all under the guise of wellness. While I’m quick to block this content, I know how deeply upsetting and triggering it can be to witness. It’s time we rewrite the narrative about how resolutions are set.
As we collectively step into 2023, remember that it’s okay to invite change in your life. The necessary distinction is that you should be the only one dictating what those changes should be. Your personal goals should be reflective of what you want for your future, and not what societal norms or anyone else tells you. If that means you want to focus on improving your health, only you can dictate what that looks like. Same goes for any other goal you set for yourself; just ensure they are attainable and leave you feeling empowered and fulfilled.
Below I’ve shared some of my own personal resolutions,
with the gentle intent to help you create your own achievable goals.
Practice Gratitude
Let me set the record straight; the notion to always think positive, happy thoughts is completely unrealistic. I used to think I had to be a bright shining beacon of hope and joy, but quickly recognized how unachievable that is every day. Instead, I’ve embraced mindfulness. While I know this sounds a little ‘woo-woo’, I promise I’m not about to start selling you healing crystals or candles that smell like a celebrity’s reproductive organs. Simply put, this practice of mine is recognizing the complexities of my emotions., but not letting them fully dictate how I approach the day.
A few years ago I was gifted a gratitude journal to help dedicate five minutes of each day for self-reflection. So that even on the hardest, bleakest, most frustrating days, I can find at least one thing to be grateful for. This small, nightly ritual has helped me to be more thoughtful and less reactive in my day-to-day life.
If you’re looking to start your own gratitude journal, a regular blank notebook will do the trick. Though I personally find prompts help to spark introspection and get the ol’ pen moving. This wellness planner by Ban.Do is full of thought-provoking questions (and it will look pretty damn cute on your desk).
Move Your Body
The notion that fitness doesn't have to be a punishment was an absolute gamechanger for me. For so long, I dreaded working out because I truly didn't enjoy the exercises I was doing. Still, I recognized an improvement in my mental state when I did get active; especially during the winter months. It wasn't until I tried Barre fitness and spin classes at a studio now known as Where I Thrive. It was there that I came to the realization that fitness can truly be fun (and does not need to be associated with weight loss, for that matter).
By finding an activity that made me feel good, in a space that felt welcoming and non-judgmental, led by instructors that empowered me through their guidance, was truly a revelation. Now I continue to seek out 'joyful movement ' over 'exercise' to maintain the shift in my mindset, and remind myself that getting physical should feel good. Moving your body doesn’t have to be through traditional exercise, either. You can make up a dance routine, go for a brisk walk, or set aside time for gentle stretching before bed. Whatever you choose, I hope it makes you feel good.
Rediscover Your Passions
As a working parent, I know how important it is to prioritize rest in the off-hours. Here’s the thing; I’ve become too good at resting, in that it’s become my default for any free-time I have. I know this relentless urge to nap is a symptom of my seasonal depression, and solution I’ve been avoiding is to reacquaint myself with things I’m passionate about.
I want to fill some of my down-time with activities that stimulate my mind and spark creativity in me. Pursuing beloved hobbies like writing always leaves me feeling incredibly fulfilled. Though I know not to force myself to sit down at my desk if I truly don’t have the energy to do so (hence the four-month gap since my last post). If your past hobbies no longer create that fire in you, perhaps this is the year you let a new passion ignite. Maybe you saw class at your local community centre that’s piqued your interest., or you also have a beginner’s knitting kit that you’ve been meaning to start. Whatever it may be, let this be the gentle push to pursue it.
Get Outside
Whether I’m feeling blue, or faced with writer’s block, so many of my problems can be improved upon with a quick walk around the block. Though I can attest that as an Ottawa resident, it’s incredibly easy to let the winter weather dictate my willingness to step outside. My notoriety for being a homebody only adds to this dilemma.
I recently saw a TikTok video from Indigenous author, Emily Anne Brant wherein she shared the phrase, “The gift of winter is that it’s here to bring clarity of the mind.” This sentiment is a great reminder of how connecting with nature can be truly therapeutic. Don’t let the forecast stop you from getting some fresh air!
Lift Up Your Loved Ones
While you’re reflecting on your own life, why not take a moment to think about how you can improve the lives of those around you? This is a goal I think we can all truly benefit from, because strengthening our relationships with others is just as important as improving the relationship we have with ourselves. It’s easy to surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. It’s also easy to forget to return the favour sometimes.
Before you pick up your phone to send an '“I’m thinking of you” text, consider this. Think of everyone in your life and what they might be going through. Is there a new parent who could use a hand with chores? A sick pal who might need a warm meal? A stressed co-worker who deserves a pat on the back? Reach out to them, provide a listening ear or an offer of support. It’s a small gesture, but it could mean the world.
What are some of your personal goals and aspirations for the new year? Share with me in a comment below!