This post comes to you from our very own Katlyn Cizek, LCPC.

It’s about that time of year. The time when we’re busy, exhausted, and overwhelmed. Great time to try making a major lift change, right?! I’m not so sure. We are often flooded with messaging around this time of year that sounds a little like this:

“New Year, New You!”

“Why wait for next year?! You can start living your life on your terms NOW!”

“Don’t live the same year XYZ times in a row and call it a life”

“End the year strong. Go out with a bang!” (cue the firework show)

But don’t get me wrong, I get it. These types of messages are meant to instill motivation and optimism. Realistically, they can promote feelings of anxiety and self-loathing. If you ask me, I’d like to end the year softly. I’m talking, sitting next to a fire, with a cup of tea, under a fluffy blanket, to the sound of my dog snoring and the smell of homemade soup on the stove. 

If you are like the majority of our population, it’s difficult to end the year in a soft way when we’re being exposed to the aforementioned messaging. This is why I’d like to give you permission to toss this messaging out the metaphorical window and join me in ending the year WITHOUT a bang.

Let’s take a moment to reflect. I bet it’s been a long, overwhelming year. Think of all that you’ve accomplished since this time last year. Give yourself compassion for what you’ve been through and the barriers that may have been in your way. The date on the calendar does not define who you are as a person. It is more than okay to start small or slow. In fact, it’s going to help you in the long term if you break down big goals into manageable chunks that you can consistently show up for. And it’s not just my opinion..it’s evidence-based!

I guess what I’m trying to say is.. The next time you see that commercial or ad pushing gym memberships, diet plans, or whatever else they’re telling you will make you a “better you”, remember this message. Take a moment to celebrate how far you’ve come before you try transforming yourself to meet societal standards. After all, you’ve survived 100% of your toughest days so far. I have a feeling you’ll be able to conquer whatever lies ahead. Happy New Year, friends 🙂

-Katlyn Cizek, LCPC