Let me start by saying, I am a believer in change. I do think we have the potential to make massive shifts in our own lives, and that is empowering. However, I am not a believer in New Year’s resolutions. I think people try to make unrealistic habits on January 1 and fail by February 1. Why? Because change is HARD. It requires much more than people think, and it can happen at any time, not just the start of a new calendar year.
That’s why I want to teach you how I turn intentions into rituals anytime.
I’m bringing into 2021 the reminder to Be Present, to focus on taking each day, each moment, as it comes. I have felt the progression in my business, relationships, and life by taking these steps through this chaotic year to create long-lasting change.
Here are 5 steps I take to make significant change happen permanently:
- Identify the Why and the How. Why are you making this change? How will you follow through? For instance, I want to eat more vegetables. When I first figure out WHY this is important to me, I then have something real to fall back on when it gets hard. It could be a short-term why, long-term why, or both. Dive deeper. Once I know WHY I’m doing it, the HOW becomes easier to figure out. It can be as simple as meal prepping 1x a week or tossing an extra handful of spinach into my smoothie every morning. There are always options and obstacles, but having a plan makes it easier to pivot when the time comes.
- Physically write it down. Make it tangible. Please put it on a piece of paper! I am more artistic, and I love having imagery ALL over my intention page. It helps my brain connect. Writing things down also enables you to focus on what’s important.
- Take baby steps. You’ve heard the saying, “it’s not the destination but the journey that’s important.” When you try to bite off more than you can chew, it’s easier to get down on yourself for a “perceived slip up” and then give up. Your journey has been cut short. Instead of going from 1 class a week to 5, try adding another workout each month. Once you’ve mastered that, add more. We must make little changes for long-lasting results.
- Remove triggers. For every change made, we are replacing a habit that we picked up along the way. Anyone else working from home and finding themselves working on the couch or makeshift office space these days? Anyone else looking to work on their posture? If you are looking to stand up straighter, first look at what is making you slouch. What can you do to remove these triggers? Maybe invest (or DIY) a standing desk. Perhaps it’s intentionally taking a walk for your lunch break. My watch reminds me to stand if I’ve been sitting too long. What’s practical for you that removes your triggers?
- Be kind to yourself. This one is harder than you think. It’s so easy to listen to the voice that finds all the faults. Instead, be your own cheerleader. Replace “I didn’t follow my diet plan today” with “tomorrow I will give my body the fuel it needs to thrive.” Life isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress.
I can do this. You can do this. Won’t you join me in solidifying new rituals this year, one intention at a time?