WHAT'S NEW ABOUT A NEW YEAR?

WHAT'S NEW ABOUT A NEW YEAR?
Thursday, January 6, 2022 by Patti Shene

PHOTO FROM PIXABAY

WHAT’S NEW ABOUT A NEW YEAR?

Patti Shene

We are six days into 2022. What is different in your life on this day compared to the everyday constants that existed on December 31^st 2021?

Research shows that most resolutions made at the beginning of a new year are abandoned within thirty days or less. Why is that?

Change is difficult, sometimes intimidating, and often met with resistance. We become comfortable in our day-to-day routine, and initiating something new requires planning and perseverance.

We don’t acquire these abilities and characteristics overnight. They take time to develop, both physiologically and psychologically. Neural pathways in the brain, created when an activity is performed repeatedly, become more deeply ingrained until we train our bodies and minds to engage in new behaviors and habits.

It is impractical to believe that major changes will occur in our lives simply because the date ends in 2021 one day and 2022 the next. Whether we resolve to cut sugar from our diet, walk two miles four times a week, dedicate a half hour daily to prayer, or treat others with more kindness, these changes require a gradual and steady effort.

Life is a journey that moves us ever forward. Like the traveler who embarks on a trip, we need a map to guide our path. An unplanned trip can result in aimless wandering and arrival at an unknown destination.

A driver doesn’t change direction abruptly when turning a corner. He engages his turn signal, applies the brake, looks for other cars, then executes the turn. Failure to do these things leads to endangerment of the driver and others.

New year resolutions are beneficial to bringing about change for a more productive and purposeful life. However, they should be well planned in a step by step manner with a specific goal in mind.

If you have already “broken” your resolution, don’t despair. Go back to the drawing board, tweak your plan, and evaluate the importance of the change you wish to implement. You will discover that February 17^th or April 23^rd is just as good a day to begin building that new neural pathway as January 1^st.

My resolution for this year is to eliminate procrastination from my life. Have I been successful? Considering that The Over 50 Writer blog posts are scheduled for Wednesday and this is Thursday…

Tomorrow is the perfect day to prepare a plan.

What is your resolution for 2022?

Comments

Gwen From Las Animas, COLORADO At 1/8/2022 9:31:19 AM

Great post, Patti! This year, I’m not doing formal resolutions. Instead I have small action plans for building good habits one or two at a time for several weeks or months until they are established. After small successes, I can add one or two new additions. Looking for God for help.

Reply by: Patti Shene

Yes, Gwen, that's the way to do it! I love the phrase "small action plans for building good habits". Thank you so much for visiting. May your weekend be blessed.

Natalya Lakhno From CA At 1/7/2022 5:46:52 PM

I don't do resolutions :) less stress. God knows what's best for me and I trust him <3

Reply by: Patti Shene

I agree, Natalya. I think we often tie ourselves down to what the world expects when we need to put more trust in the Lord. Thank you for stopping by. Have a blessed 2022!