Co-author: Ricole Tay
2022 has been an enthralling year, with many measures against covid-19 gradually lifted - employees returning to offices, mask-wearing becoming optional indoors, and travel borders to most countries have been opened. Covid-19 has had a significant impact since 2020 and has undoubtedly drastically altered many lives. During the two years of battling the pandemic, we have experienced different waves and adapted to many newly introduced measurements. We are finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel for things that once seemed impossible during the spike in cases and circuit breaker.
"New year, new me," and "New Year's resolutions "... sound familiar? These statements are often mentioned at the start of a new year - setting expectations and goals for oneself whilst feeling optimistic. These goals govern one's life priorities and decisions to get closer to becoming the best version of themselves.
When beginning the year, we typically start our resolutions with the burning question - what do I want? Our previous article, in January 2022, touched on a few common aspects individuals would like to change: health, sense of belonging, achievement, independence, and enjoyment. As the year is drawing to an end, let us reflect on our progress and achievements. Take a minute to think about what you have hoped to attain at the beginning of 2022, and if you have successfully achieved them. If you did, congratulations! You have reaped what you sow, and your efforts and discipline throughout the year have paid off! If you did not, do not be disheartened. We hope this article will bring comfort and spur you on for the remaining days before the year officially ends.
When our goals and expectations fall through, it tends to cause hopelessness and disappointment, especially if the goal has been unmet for many years and counting. These feelings lead to decreased motivation, creating a further distance towards attaining the goal. More often than not, feelings of despair amplify when little to no steps have been taken to accomplish something. It is, however, not too late to start on it now - one small step at a time. Over time, it is likely that one will feel more motivated after seeing results, no matter how big or small. Although this year is coming to an end, the next has yet to come. With new found confidence and motivation, re-evaluate and set another timeline and action plan to continue pursuing the goal.
Remember that life is unpredictable and that circumstances change frequently. One's initial goal may drop in priority as the year progresses due to circumstances or preferences. Additionally, a shift in focus is expected when faced with new challenges or opportunities. In some instances, making sacrifices or putting personal goals on hold may be inevitable. However, this does not necessarily mean that the individual has failed. It is okay to shift one’s priorities if need be.
It can be easy for one to fixate on failures and possibly lack of progress which could cloud one’s ability to see what they have achieved. Rather than focusing on thoughts such as 'I am still the same person or 'my progress has been stagnant since last year,' take the time to reflect on things you have pulled off and improved from since the start of 2022. Engage in self-reflection and give yourself credit for how far you have come. Note how you have grown or accomplished and overcame things that you thought were impossible.
Tips to consider when charting out new year's resolution
Expect delays - it is common for one's priorities to change as one progresses in life. Some goals are bound to be delayed but not necessarily forgotten or changed. Remember that slow and study is the way to go.
Start small - individuals tend to overestimate how much their body can handle and accomplish in a short time frame. Start small and increase gradually. Set a realistic target date to avoid over-pressuring yourself. It is also important to note that some goals do not necessarily have to have a deadline, and one should follow their own pace. For example, instead of aiming to lose 5kg in a week, plan a diet and exercise routine that is feasible in the long run. Plan something you know you and your body can handle in months and years to come to avoid falling back.
Hold yourself accountable - individuals have different methods to keep themselves in check. Individuals who make new year's resolutions should be clear when setting out their goals and avoid being vague. Doing so allows one to keep up with their progress and achievements. For example, it is harder to measure and keep track of 'start exercising more' compared to 'jog for 30 minutes 3 times a week'.
Place a larger emphasis on how you will do it instead of what you want to achieve. Life and behavioural changes must be made as part of the steps to achieving your goal, and it may seem more challenging if there are no 'steps' or 'guidance' to follow or fall back on. For example, instead of focussing on 'I want to have more money by the end of the year, map out the strides you plan to make - such as 'I will save $xx every week', 'I will only shop for things I need, not want,’ or 'I will limit my outings in a month and start cooking to save more money.’
With a rapid and fast-paced lifestyle in Singapore, one can only anticipate the ever-changing life circumstances. As the year has not ended, it is not too late to start working on goals you have put off or neglected. Moreover, there is no time limit to what you can achieve, and you can still accomplish your goals in 2023. The key idea is to start now and not procrastinate on it, as it increases your motivation to continue them the following year. Most importantly, take a step back to see how much you have conquered this year. Celebrate the small wins and accomplishments, and do not be too hard on yourself.