Revitalizing New Year Rituals

---

The 3 R’s

For many of us, the coming of a new year signifies the annual opportunity to reflect, refresh, and refine who we are as people. While everyone deserves this chance for change, each of us is likely to experience this opportunity differently. 

For instance, those of us who thrive under pressure may eagerly anticipate this time and embrace the challenge of conquering yet another set of self-proclaimed goals.

For others, this time overflows with feelings of guilt, regret, and ambiguity after self-reflection reveals that another trip around the sun has been futile.

Then, of course, there’s the bunch of us who maintain a laissez-faire type mindset. Meaning, we agree that each new year will bring its own set of obstacles and therefore the goal is to not chase after challenges, rather, to face and overcome these obstacles if they are present. 

No matter the mindset, the permanent truth is, there is no escaping the pressure that accompanies the beginning of a new year.  

---

The 4th R

If you haven’t noticed, thus far, there has been no mention of the most notorious New Year’s R of all. This has been quite intentional. The cause being its negative reputation commonly invites the presence of unnecessary stress. 

And who needs additional stress??? 

In turn, the hope here is that by revitalizing New Year rituals though the 3 R’s we are offered a new point of view to replace the dread tied to the 4th R. 

---

Improving our Imperfections

The setting of yearly intentions is common practice within our society, yet most efforts cease long before the finish line. According to an article written by Forbes (2023), the average length of self-refinement goals is less than 4-months!  Surprising? Well here’s  something even more captivating, the second Friday in January has been coined as “Quitters Day,” due to the high volume of individuals that resign from  their efforts of change just two weeks into the New Year.

So, what’s the trick to prevailing rather than failing?

To be completely honest, there is no clear-cut method to establishing annual goals and guaranteeing that they are completed within a 365-day timeframe. There are, however, ways we can manage any increased stress or adverse effects these commitments can cause.

---

Questions to Consider

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work with a skilled professional who offers targeted treatment based on your specific needs?

How might it feel to speak openly about your thoughts and fears related to success within a safe environment that is free of judgement and bias? 

In what ways could the outcome of your annual ambitions differ from years past after you’ve been supported in establishing attainable goals and developing methods of remaining accountable for your own progress? 

Mental health counselors are trained in many areas and possess the necessary skills to support client success. Counselors collaborate with clients to develop progress-driven short- and long-term goals early on in the therapeutic process. As this process is collaborative, counselors encourage individuals to enter treatment even if they are uncertain about any intricacies of their goals. 

To sum things up, no matter your 3R mindset, or whether you answered yes to 1, 2, or all 3 questions to be considered, counseling may be just the right environment for you. 

Oh ya…. 

In case you’re left still guessing, the infamous R being referred to is….resolution.

-West Shore Wellness Staff