As each New Year approaches, we often reflect on the past year’s accomplishments, shortcomings and desired areas of change to make ourselves stronger and happier. We tend to set New Year’s resolutions that are compiled of desired lifestyle changes.
The majority of people fail to maintain their momentum throughout the year, as evidenced by the University of Scranton’s research which suggests that only 8 percent of people achieve their New Year’s resolutions.
The best way to achieve desired lifestyle changes and improve the overall quality of life is to incorporate self-care. Self-care is what people do for themselves to establish and maintain physical and emotional health. Caring for ourselves is one of the most important (and often most forgotten) things we can do to live a happier and healthier lifestyle.
Reduce Personal Stress
Self-neglect is often found when people are exposed to chronic and prolonged stressors, such as being a caregiver or in a high-stress work environment. Prolonged stress can increase risks for sleep deprivation, obesity, poor eating habits and failure to exercise, high blood pressure and cholesterol, suppressed immune system and failure to address medical concerns. People who are exposed to prolonged stress are at a higher risk for depression and anxiety and are more likely to abuse tobacco or other substances. Recognize your warning signs of stress, which could include irritability, forgetfulness, or disturbances in sleep. Attempt to reduce stress before becoming overwhelmed by implementing stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, going for a walk, reaching out to others for support, or other distraction techniques.
Physical Health
It is important to attend all yearly preventive care doctor appointments, seek medical attention as necessary, and consult with a mental health professional if symptoms of depression and anxiety persist. Achieve proper rest, and nutrition, and exercise regularly. Incorporate pleasant, self-nurturing activities into your weekly routine. Try something new!
Change Your Perspective
The most identified barrier to achieving self-care is the belief that it is selfish or that others’ needs are more important. People often believe that asking for help and saying “No” are signs of weakness or that we will burden other people with our stress. Remember, you must put your oxygen mask on first before you can help anyone else. Challenge patterns of negative thinking and take time off without feeling guilty.
Set Goals
Set yourself up for success by making small goals throughout the year that are realistic and attainable rather that one large overwhelming resolution. For example, if your goal is to lose weight it may seem overwhelming to say, “I want to lose 20 pounds by March”.
By incorporating self-care, you can work toward larger goals one step at a time, such as attending a weekly spin class, walking three times a week for 10 minutes or substituting a salad for fries. Be patient. Actively making better choices for a healthy lifestyle takes time, and you may not see results or the changes you desire right away. Remind yourself that it is progress, not perfection. Self-care is a lifelong journey.