GOAL GETTERS

FORGE A HOLISTIC PATH TO PERSONAL GROWTH

By Hunter Harrell

At the beginning of a New Year, it’s clear to see how easily days slip into months, and months into years. Does the stroke of midnight bless some fortunate souls with the magic they need to reach their resolutions? The truth is each day is like any other: full of choices.

Each year, various professionals from athletes and personal trainers to psychologists and wellness coaches (and writers, hello!) offer advice for people who set resolutions. But it’s often vague, which can be conflicting. For example, setting a measurable goal is a great tip. But what if an individual is more obsessed with making progress than recognizing how the change affects their lifestyle, relationships and well-being?

Our daily energy isn’t unlimited. It takes effort and energy to achieve new goals, which can make many people feel like they are failing in other parts of their life. Looking at change or resolutions as a holistic practice rather than a win or lose process can help us to enrich our lives and achieve personal growth.

Often, resolutions are framed around our worst habits. Instead, some goal getters, like me, offer another approach to popular resolutions: be more mindful of the opportunities ahead.

Choices are challenging. Goal getters see those choices and challenges as opportunities to grow. A resolution is simply a more well-contrived plan to make better choices. If we understand the goal, start small, gather support, expect challenges and embrace failure as a learning opportunity, resolutions can help us face change with grace and perseverance.

PHYSICAL HEALTH

MOVE

Remember feeling young and restless? That’s because exercise improves energy levels in addition to reducing stress and tension. Try more leisurebased activities to approach fitness resolutions with more passion or purpose. Your strategy can be as simple as enjoying more impromptu bike rides and hikes, or parking a few more paces from the store or office.

HYDRATE

Drinking water is vital for a healthy complexion. And your skin isn’t the only organ that suffers from dehydration. Every part of the body needs water to function properly. How much water one needs depends on activity level, location and current health status. Carry a reusable water bottle at all times and set alarms to consume and refill if needed.

NOURISH

Food-focused resolutions are just as popular as exercise-based goals. For some, the goal of a diet is simply eating more healthful meals, while others hope to lose weight as well. When it comes to sustainability, choosing a diet plan doesn’t always work. Instead, strive to eat more unrefined, unprocessed, organic and locally-grown whole foods.

REST

Data from the CDC shows that nearly 70 million Americans report sleeping less than the recommended 7 hours a night. Quality rest could be the missing key to your health routine. Start by sticking to a more consistent schedule, and practice going to bed when you feel tired, even if you feel it is too early.

EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

CONNECT

Isolation has impacted us all. It’s no secret that spending additional quality time with our friends and family is top-of-mind. Socializing and strengthening relationships can improve your mental health as well as lower stress levels and inflammation. Embrace variety in communication methods and set aside time to exchange experiences and support loved ones.

LEARN

Living in the digital age provides us access to an increasing amount of knowledge and information. So, of course, it’s easy to learn something new every day. However, it is important to also be intentional about processing new information. Prioritize practicing new skills and implementing what you learn in other practical parts of your life.

READ

Reading improves language, communication and critical thinking skills, in addition to expanding perspectives. By engaging with literature for leisure, readers can improve focus, refine conversational skills, gather knowledge and inspire creative thinking. One strategy that leads to success is setting aside designated time to read – even if that is in increments of 10 to 20 minutes.

UNPLUG

From time to time, disconnecting can be just as effective and important as connecting. Taking time to unplug from technology can help people remove distractions, improve concentration, regulate emotions and prevent burn out. Give the brain time to process feelings and information by reducing time spent on social media or using screens.

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

CREATE

Expressing ourselves through creative outlets is crucial for development. Studies show that participating in creative projects, even as we grow older, improves cognitive abilities and alleviates stress. It can also give your self-esteem and social life a little boost. Build. Draw. Knit. Paint. The possibilities are endless, but the rewards are fulfilling.

PLAY

Resolutions can also help individuals prioritize the activities that bring them pleasure. Some people are all work and no play. However, incorporating recreational activities into your daily routine is important for discovery and empowerment as well as physical health and mental well-being.

TRAVEL

While traveling is a luxury and a privilege these days, studies show that for some, traveling can have healing effects. Resolving to travel more doesn’t always mean booking extravagant trips. It can be as simple as browsing shops in a nearby community or hiking a new trail. Interacting with new people and places expands confidence and perspective.

REFLECT

Conscious consideration of actions, beliefs, desires and motivations is a necessary step to learning more about ourselves and our relationships with others. When we slow down and take time to interpret our observations and experiences, we respond in more healthy and positive ways. Whether meditating or journaling, take moments to absorb and assess your well-being.