How to Keep Your New Year's Resolutions All Year Long
If your New Year's resolutions are already starting to fade, don't worry, you're not alone. Most of us begin the year with the best of intentions, but life (and for many, migraine) can quickly derail our plans.
Here’s how to stay on track without burning out, giving up, or falling into self-blame.
Why Do Resolutions Fail?
Resolutions often fail because they lack clarity, flexibility, and a supportive foundation.
How to address these common pitfalls?
Start with the Why
Clearly define why your resolution matters to you. For example, if you aim to practice yoga in the coming year, consider why: Is it to feel calmer, reduce migraine symptoms, or increase physical activity? Keeping your “why” top of mind will fuel your motivation.Ditch the All-or-Nothing Mindset
Unrealistic goals like “I’ll do this every single day” can set you up for failure. Life is unpredictable, especially for those living with chronic conditions like migraine. Instead, embrace flexibility. Celebrate progress, even if it’s smaller or less frequent than planned.Frame Resolutions with Self-Love
Resolutions rooted in self-criticism, like “I need to lose weight because I hate my body,” are hard to sustain. Instead, reframe goals positively: “I want to care for my body and feel stronger.” This shift from punishment to empowerment makes a big difference.
Creative Alternatives to Traditional Resolutions
Resolutions don’t have to be rigid.
Consider these fresh approaches…
Set a Word of the Year
Choose a word or theme to guide your decisions and actions. For instance, “community” or “growth” can help shape your priorities and focus for the year. Write it on a sticky note or keep it visible as a daily reminder.Embrace a Sankalpa
In yoga, a sankalpa is a positive statement that reflects your highest self. Phrases like “I am healing” or “I love my life” serve as affirmations, reminding you of your wholeness and potential. These can be especially powerful during meditation practices.
Practical Strategies for Sticking to Your Goals
Put It on the Calendar
If it’s not scheduled, it’s easy to overlook. Whether it’s yoga classes, gym visits, or personal projects, identify realistic times that work with your routine.Plan for Plan B
Life happens. A sick child, a migraine attack, or unexpected meetings might derail your plans. Have a backup ready: a shorter practice, a lighter activity, or a rescheduled session. Flexibility ensures you stay consistent without stress.Seek Support and Community
Change is hard to tackle alone. A supportive community or coach can help you stay motivated, adjust goals when needed, and celebrate progress. Whether it’s a yoga group, wellness program, or accountability partner, having others by your side makes a difference.
Redefine Success
Resolutions are not rigid roadmaps, they’re guiding stars. If your path takes detours, that’s okay. Progress isn’t linear, and what matters most is your continued effort. You can always start over, whether it’s a new week, a new month, or simply a new day.
Join the Journey
If you need a boost of New Year’s motivation, join my Migraine Self-Care Challenge February 10-21 for $26. You’ll get short self-care practices to inspire you daily, with options for both low and high-pain days. Plus 1 month’s access to the Migraine Self-Care Circle Guided Membership (normally $52/month), live weekly sessions, a searchable migraine self-care video library and prizes! Calm your migraine and reach your health goals in the Migraine Self-Care Challenge.
