Every year on the 1st of January, many of us make big plans and goals.
The first day of the year is the day of resolutions, the day of the ‘new me’, the day we choose to change for the better.
We always start with the best intentions, but for many of us, it lasts a week or two, and that’s it; sooner or later, we have to face disappointment and frustration for not being able to stick to our initial plan.
Are we putting too much pressure on ourselves?
Is January really the best month for new resolutions?
Here are 4 reasons why January may not be the best option to set all your goals for the year:
1 – Madness of December
December is a crazy month of parties, food and drink. For many of us, in December, our routine includes pyjamas at lunchtime, festive dinners, a diet of leftovers for days and a considerable amount of chocolate and treats!
Then suddenly, on the 1st of January, with no time between, we come up with all these goals and new strict routines.
We should give ourselves time to return to everyday life and then start a new list of goals and practices.
What about February as your new resolutions month?
2 – Everyone else is doing it.
Everyone picks the 1st of January as the day they make all these big changes, putting pressure on us to do the same. But the only way to carry through with our resolutions is by having our own unique motivation.
3 – The darkest and coldest month.
For many people, January can be a bad option to start a new routine: It’s freezing, dark, and it can rain quite frequently, a perfect recipe to lower the level of willpower and motivation and increase the desire to stay warm in bed.
4 – Too Much Contrast
Christmas is about enjoyment and delight. The cupboards are filled with sweets, fancy foods and drinks. When we enter January, suddenly cut out food, and start going to the gym each day, we can feel a little deprived and overwhelm by the contrast between December and January’s habits. On top of that, we are waiting for the first payment post the bankruptcy caused by Christmas!
Things can be different this year if you feel, need or want. Set resolutions when you think it’s best for you!
If ‘Living abroad’ is on your list of resolutions for 2023, send us a message, and we will help you with that!
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