New year. Same you. Now what?

New year. Same you. Now what?

Most of us are guilty of it: the “new year, new me” mindset. 

Most of us are also guilty of conveniently forgetting about this ‘new me’ within a couple of weeks. 

A few years back, I remember saying to myself “this is the year I get in the best shape of my life. I’m going to work out every day and I’m not going to make any more excuses”. Two weeks later I was starting my day with a bag of chips and a few episodes of ‘Breaking Bad’. 

Turns out, I was still the same me. Nothing had changed. All I did was say a few words that I didn’t really believe anyway. It just felt good to say it to friends and family because everyone else was doing it. 

Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot of value in making resolutions toward self-improvement. The new year can serve as a powerful source of motivation to make some changes. 

BUT

Goals without a plan are nothing more than dreams.  

In order to bring our dreams into reality, we need to establish a meaningful and achievable course of action. 

Otherwise, “new year, new me” is just wishful thinking. 

In the book “the Slight Edge” by Jeff Olson, the author discusses the profound impact that Simple Daily Disciplines can have on your life. 

Picture this: 2 people decide to “get in better shape”. 1 makes a plan to do 10 pushups every single day, no matter what. The other makes no plan at all, figuring they will simply ‘get to the gym more often’. Who do you think is more likely to have success with their goal?

10 pushups a day is an example of a simple daily discipline that is so easy to do, that it’s hard NOT to do. Establishing a simple daily discipline is a fantastic place to start because it’s so EASY and SO effective! Even with such a small goal, you will have done at least 3’650 pushups in 1 year. Trust me, your arms, chest, and back will thank you. 

Here is my challenge to you. 

In 2023, establish 1 good habit that gets you closer to your goals. 

What is your Simple Daily Discipline? Something that’s so easy to do, it’s hard not to do. 

Here are some examples to get you started: 10 reps of any activity, read 10 pages, write 1 page, jog/walk around 1 block, 2 minute meditation, 30 mins to connect with your partner etc. etc. 

Keep in mind that these numbers are completely arbitrary. Can’t do 10? Do 1, 2, or 3. The number that you set is not important! The point of this daily discipline exercise is to train yourself how to stay consistent with your goals. 

Need some help? Let’s talk about it. 

For more information or to book an appointment please call 250-718-9291 or email us at info@okclinical.com

References: 

The Slight Edge: Turning Simple Disciplines into Massive Success and Happiness, Jeff Olson, 2013

Written by: Mykhaylo Petrynyak, BA Psych, MACP

mike@okclinical.com

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