WASHINGTON 鈥� As the days left in 2015 dwindle, many may be thinking of how to prepare for the year ahead. Should you make New Year鈥檚 resolutions, or will that lead to frustration if you鈥檙e unable to follow through?
Psychologist Dr. Renita Gabriel shared some tips with 草莓传媒 about preparing to start off the new year with a positive attitude.
Gabriel says it鈥檚 an important time to remember 鈥渟elf-care鈥� and making time to nurture yourself.
鈥淔ind out what it is that you can give to yourself to really kind of help care for yourself in a time when things are not always pretty,鈥� she says.
If you鈥檙e feeling overwhelmed by goals and expectations for the coming year, it may be helpful to tune out a bit.
鈥淪ometimes you can create a buffer by, you know, getting unplugged every once in a while,鈥� Gabriel explains. It may be helpful to go outside, take a walk and a mental break for yourself.
If you鈥檙e planning to make some resolutions come New Year鈥檚 Day, Gabriel has a handy acronym to keep in mind 鈥� STEPS. Here鈥檚 what it stands for:
- S: Set realistic goals. Focus on what is achievable and attainable.
- T: Take time to plan what it will require for you to achieve that goal. Do your research, do your homework.
- E: Embrace one change at a time 鈥� pace yourself when it comes to your goals.
- P: Persist. If you divert from your plan a bit, remember to get back on the wagon.
- S: Support. Get people on board with your goals to hold you accountable.
