2015 has finally reached its final days, and 2016 holds a lot of promise—a lot of opportunity for change. This time next year, the United States will have a new president. The world will have taken baby steps against global warming.
The changing world beckons change in individuals' lives as well. Yes, the time has come for resolutions. Unfortunately, for many, "New Year's resolutions" become an excuse to bully ourselves about our perceived failures during the previous year. Instead of seeking ways to grow, we try to beat ourselves into different people. More often than not, these "resolutions" leave us hurt, disappointed and frustrated. This year, let's try something different. Here are some resolutions that encourage self-love.
1. Keep a gratitude list.
I know it sounds terribly corny, but taking the time each evening to remember the small joys of the day really can illuminate the good and alleviate the crappy. It makes the world easier to handle, and it helps you to remember the love of your friends and family. Did you get free guac today? A phone call from an old friend? Did you nail a presentation? Even just talking about the best parts of the day can make the bad parts fade away.
2. Tell your body it's awesome.
Let's face it; your body is great. Not only is it sexy (or beautiful or handsome or stunning or all of the above), it can do so much. Regardless of any different abilities, you can interact with the world through your body. You can express yourself. You can cuddle close to other people.
This year, try sticking a thank you note for your body to the mirror every time you catch a glimpse of yourself. Whether it's "Thanks for looking amazing in green," "Thanks for having such a great booty," "Thanks for being great at rugby" or "Thanks for helping me hug grandma today," body positivity can go a very long way.
3. Keep a journal.
Confession: This has been my resolution every year since about 2011, and I always end up missing a day...or a week...or a few months. It really falls apart when I start to beat myself up for it instead of just accepting that I'm not perfect. Taking the time to write every day or whenever you feel like it, however, can really help clear your head of all the mucky thoughts that end up stuck in there sometimes. Write poetry, lists or essays. Just write how your day went. A journal makes a really great listener.
4. Find a cause.
OK, so maybe don't vandalize anything. But the world is tumultuous right now, and dozens of serious issues impact our lives every day. Life can seem like utter chaos and it's really hard not to feel helpless sometimes.
However, the fact is we aren't helpless. Find a topic that speaks to your heart and really ticks you off. Read about it; write about it on social media and to Congress and newspapers; protest. Don't be silent.
5. Ask for help.
Never forget that we belong to each other. Everyone needs help sometimes and no one ever has to fight any demons alone. Reach out to your family and your friends if you can. Let them hold you. Let them say the wrong thing sometimes; it happens. Let people remind you that everything will work out. Don't be afraid of counseling, either. Sometimes talking feelings out with someone whose only stake in the situation is helping you can bring a new kind of clarity.
Help of any kind isn't for the broken; it's for the human. Asking for help when you need it shows strength, self-respect and self-love.
