New Year, New Me?

As I write this blog, I’m reflecting on how quickly time passes. To think that it is almost 2024 is pretty startling. Where did 2023 go? Where did last Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall go? At the beginning of each year we tend to focus on our new goals, and make resolutions to change behaviors, have more satisfying relationships, eat healthier, lose weight,  and overall become a different/”Better”  person.

But, what’s wrong with the person we are today?

Time passes quickly, by the time we make all these radical changes we will likely have another ideal in mind to shoot for, or we might just feel the disappointment of not meeting our often too difficult to attain and maintain resolutions. So rather than focus on change, perhaps it would be more advisable for us to focus on the here and now. Maybe, what we should do is accept ourselves for who we are, right in this moment, because that is exactly where we are supposed to be.

As a goal driven person myself, I realize how hard this is. At the same time, I also know how important it is. Time is a precious thing. With the passing of another year, comes another chance for us to be proud of our accomplishments, happy with our minds, and thankful for everything our bodies allow us to do (despite the shape or size). Maybe this year, we can resolve to love ourselves for who we are in mind, body, and spirit.  This may be a tough one for some of us to keep, but I can guarantee it will be more satisfying (and comfortable) than fitting back into your skinny jeans.

• Written by Lauren Turner, Psy.D.