Big Resolutions and Small Shifts

I don’t know about you, but my social media feed is full of talk about big shiny new resolutions for 2024. And why not? Big resolutions feel good, like we're making some kind of stand for progress, refusing to tolerate the shortcomings of the past, and finally changing things that we couldn't overcome just a few days before.

But big resolutions rarely deliver. They quickly get tiring, overwhelming and unmanageable. They come from 'all or nothing' thinking that has us either scaling Mount Everest or slumped on the couch, feeling defeated and believing nothing will ever change.

This year I want to encourage us both to ditch the big, shiny resolutions and instead focus on making small shifts that move us closer to where we want to be.

Here’s the difference.

Big resolutions say ‘This year I’m finally going to get fit’. ​
​Small shifts say ‘How can I move my body today?’

Big resolutions say ‘I’m going to be more organised and actually have a system for managing my paperwork.’
​Small shifts say ‘What’s one thing I can find a proper place for?’

Big resolutions say ‘This year I’m going to be more social.’ ​
​Small shifts say ‘Today I’m going to text a friend I’ve lost touch with.’

Small shifts add up, remind us of what we can accomplish, and build momentum towards bigger changes. And they also reflect how life is actually lived - one small choice at a time.

At the beginning of this New Year, let’s not set ourselves herculean challenges that will leave us feeling defeated and no better off. Let’s set our sights on today, and look for the small shifts we can make to align our lives with our values.

Blessings as you welcome the New Year.