Watch Your Mouth

It’s time for the dreaded New Year’s resolutions. I don’t know why we do that to ourselves. Those that study this kind of thing tell us most resolutions last for 36 days. To be more specific, an article in Smarter Living states the “second Friday in January is the fateful day when our annual commitments start to crumble.” That’s January 14, 2022 for those counting!

So often, we set unrealistic, unattainable goals and then succumb to defeat no sooner than we begin. I think part of the problem is the language we use when we’re talking to ourselves.

Words like:
I have to lose weight.
I need to exercise.
I must quit smoking.
I should eat healthier.

Need to, have to, must and should are heavy, overwhelming words. You can feel the stress and pressure before you even get started. Would you say those words to your best friend? Probably not. Then why do you say that to yourself?

I propose a kinder, gentler approach. Spend some time in quiet reflection asking yourself what or where you would like to be this time next year…not tomorrow or next month…a year from now.

Try using words like:
I would like to lose weight (and be realistic about how much each week/month for the next 365 days).
I get to exercise (whether it’s walking, yoga, going to a gym…think of it as a privilege).
I want to adopt healthy habits (start by setting incremental goals, be patient, expect setbacks but don’t let them totally derail you…start over as many times as you need to).

Remember, a goal without a plan is just a daydream.

Happy New Year!