To Resolution or Not To Resolution? Thoughts from an insider on behavioral change & an expert in anxieties role in creating lasting change

Personally, I like to think of the new year as time to reflect and celebrate the past year’s accomplishments and set intentions to continue building on current habits.  Behavioral change comes easier for me in Spring.  Whenever or however you approach change-- if you are looking to dive into new habits, here’s a few tips I’ve found helpful.  First-get clear on your motivations, examine any ambivalence to change that may exist (they may show up in the form of excuses) and then lean into baby steps.  Ambivalence is usually tied to low motivation or low confidence in your ability to meet your goals.  Framing goals in baby steps is one of the best ways to sneak change past the amygdala-- so we can avoid getting in our own way.  Remember the neural system is not interested in your goals or change, just keeping you ‘safe’ in your comfort zone. 

Examples of this: if you’re looking to go to the gym more, put your gym bag or running shoes by the door where it’s in your line of vision for a couple weeks—affirming I’m getting ready to be ready, avoiding self-criticism. Also important to note, to avoid posing change in deprivation—the neural system gets panicked about never having the thing that it can become fixated.  List out and look at all the habits, foods, activities, or thoughts you want to ADD into your life (in small, incremental steps), not restriction—less likely to set of the amygdala. 

WINTER RECCS

The Spirit of Kaizen- Robert Maurer, PH.D.

The Resilient Mind Link to podcast

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As always, I am so grateful for your trust and the opportunity to grow & learn with you. 

Love on that beautiful brain!

Mandy