.png)
Author: Gill Jackson
First published: 23/03/2023
Last updated: 19/03/2024
As the earth awakens from its wintry slumber, there's an undeniable sense of renewal in the air. Springtime, with its vibrant blooms and warming rays, brings forth an opportunity for personal rejuvenation and growth. Just as nature sheds its old layers and embraces fresh beginnings, so too can we embark on a journey of self-improvement and renewal.
This week marked the official start of spring here in the UK and already I can feel the shift- the days are slowly getting longer and brighter, the temperature is rising and flowers are starting to appear.
In this blog, we'll explore the concept of springtime resolutions—those aspirations and commitments we make as we bid farewell to winter and welcome the promise of a new season. Unlike the traditional New Year's resolutions often made amidst the cold of January, springtime resolutions carry a unique energy fuelled by the revitalising spirit of the season.
Spring is a lovely time of year, it is when people tend to start feeling better in themselves as the day light hours increase and the temperature starts to slowly rise, we venture outside more and start to plan social events, plant in our gardens and vegetable patches. And we start to look forward to the promise of the long hot summer days to come.
Why new years resolutions often falter
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, many of us eagerly jot down resolutions—ambitious goals and aspirations we vow to achieve in the upcoming year. Yet, as January gives way to February and beyond, a familiar pattern often emerges: our once fervent resolutions begin to wane, eventually fading into the background of our busy lives. But why does this happen? What causes our well-intentioned New Year's resolutions to falter? Let's delve into the underlying reasons behind this phenomenon.
Unrealistic Expectations: One of the primary reasons New Year's resolutions fail is the setting of unrealistic expectations. In the excitement of a fresh year, we often aim for lofty goals without considering the practicalities of achieving them. Whether it's committing to an overly strict diet or aspiring to exercise daily despite a hectic schedule, unrealistic expectations can set us up for disappointment and frustration.
Lack of Specificity: Another common pitfall is the lack of specificity in our resolutions. Vague goals such as "lose weight" or "save money" lack the clarity and direction necessary for success. Without a clear roadmap outlining how we plan to achieve these objectives, it's easy to become overwhelmed or lose motivation along the way.
Failure to Plan: The adage "failing to plan is planning to fail" holds true when it comes to New Year's resolutions. Many of us dive headfirst into our goals without developing a concrete plan of action. Without a well-defined strategy in place, we may struggle to overcome obstacles or stay on track when faced with challenges.
Lack of Accountability: Accountability plays a crucial role in the success of any goal-setting endeavour. Without external support or accountability mechanisms in place, it's easy to succumb to procrastination or give in to temptations. Whether it's enlisting the help of a friend, joining a support group, or utilising accountability apps, having a support system can significantly increase our chances of sticking to our resolutions.
All-or-Nothing Mentality: The all-or-nothing mentality, characterised by rigid thinking and perfectionism, can sabotage our efforts to make lasting changes. When we inevitably encounter setbacks or slip-ups along the way, this mindset can lead to feelings of failure and self-doubt, ultimately derailing our progress.
In general making big life changes during the darkest most miserable time of the year, when everything around us is at rest and financially we may have taken a hit from the festive season, generally speaking, isn't likely to work. But the good news is that Springtime resolutions have a much better chance of sticking well into the long summer months ahead and hopefully beyond.
If you have been wanting to quit smoking or cut back on alcohol consumption, start writing a journal or walking the dog more. Maybe you want to make more of an effort with friends or family, change your career, or learn a new skill- the possibilities are endless. Whatever the change you want to make Spring is absolutely the time for it!
Tips for making spring time resolutions
Change one thing at a time- making changes requires patience and dedication so don't overwhelm yourself with too many changes at once.
Set realistic and achievable goals- set goals you can achieve and build on them, going from say drinking 4 cans of pop a day to none is unrealistic, so cut back to 3 for a few weeks, then 2, and so on.
Track your progress- it gives us a little boost when we look back and see just how far we have come. Tracking your progress means you are more likely to succeed with your change.
Find a change buddy- making a big change can be much easier with the support of another like-minded individual, someone experiencing similar things to you can help you to ride the ups and downs of making a life change. There are many online and in-person groups and forums for various life changes that you could access or you may have a friend or family member who wants to achieve similar goals to you that you could informally buddy up with. Sometimes however we are going through something very private or simply don't know anyone else going through a similar experience and in that case, a paid professional such as a life coach, therapist, or mentor may also help.
Ditch those doomed-to-fail New Year's Resolutions and start your successful Spring Time Resolutions today to make those much-needed life changes. I wish you every success.
Should you need any further support with making changes to your life, big or small, please do not hesitate to get in touch- my contact details can be found on my website and social media.
Author: Gill Jackson of Gill Jackson Therapeutic Counselling, BA Hons Counselling, Diploma in Couples and Family Therapy, Diploma in EFT, CIPD, SMACCPH
Bio: I am a Therapist/Psychotherapist, Accredited Mentor, and Teacher in private practice in the UK, qualified since 2007. Working with adults and young adults. I specialise in Anxiety Disorders and Depression.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/gilljacksontherapy
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gilljacksoncounselling
This article is not intended as a replacement for medical advice, if you are suffering from any physical or mental ill health please seek advice of your Doctor where necessary.
Images used with permission from Wix and Unsplashed.