Well, it’s that time of year again. You vow to go to the gym at least five times a week, to cut back on calories, to do whatever it is you did in 2018 that just wasn’t working for you. Why don’t we cut to the chase: this is just silly. You know why? Those statements/resolutions are just a rephrasing of the following: “I don’t like who I am, and I am going to do everything I can this year to change myself.” Girlfriend, let me tell you something: You’re already amazing!!

New Year’s Resolutions, while sometimes good goals, are not a good way to celebrate who you are and truly focus on how you can be growing as an individual. It’s a process. . .and often times it can’t be forced or curated.

Most New Year’s resolutions don’t make it longer than four months statistically. That’s because it’s easy to get burnt out and to get discouraged when you’re solely focused on this one thing you dislike about yourself, and it consumes so much of your thought process, time, and energy. Just look at like this instead: growth is a natural process. . .it kind of just happens. We slowly start realizing ways we can grow, develop, and mature. Trying to force it is unhelpful. Also, it’s good to realize that everything happens for a reason, and nothing about you is a mistake.

Fitness is always a big resolution. What if this year instead of bending over backwards to go to the gym a certain amount of times a week or lose a certain amount of weight you just focus on being HEALTHY instead. What if you did research about what specific exercises are going to work for YOUR body type? Or get some friends together once a week to exercise together and motivate each other in self-love at the same time? I am not advocating for not treating your body well—I am advocating for loving your body and treating it with respect while also treating your heart and mind with respect, as well!

Instead of having a resolution this year, why don’t you spend some time this New Year’s writing down 19 things you like about yourself—things you are proud of, that make you exactly who you are. You can spend this next year celebrating those things. How about I at least get us started? Below are five things I love about myself!

1. I am independent
2. I am one of those weirdos that actually adores school, and I love that about myself!
3. I am teachable: I strive to be open minded and hear as many perspectives as possible
4. I am a loyal, true friend to those around me
5. I am passionate about social justice.

It’s your turn! Reach out to us on Instagram or Facebook, introduce yourself, and let us know some of the things you love about yourself. We would love to hear from you and hear if this exercise helped you kick off your new year to a great start!