A New Year Without Resolutions

For as long as I can remember, New Year's resolutions always revolved around the same familiar promises: “I’ll exercise more,” “I’ll lose weight,” “I’ll cut out treats.” Every year, I’d set the same goals, only to find myself falling back into old habits before February. The cycle felt endless and, honestly, a bit discouraging.

But over time, I’ve shifted my perspective. Instead of setting rigid resolutions, I now focus on what I want to leave behind and what I hope to carry into the new year. I think about the habits or mindsets that no longer serve me — the stress, the negativity, the self-imposed pressure — and I gently let them go. I leave behind toxic relationships that drain my energy, the high expectations I set for myself that only lead to burnout, and the perfectionism that stifles my growth.

What I’ve also learned, over time, is that eating disorders travel. They don’t disappear when the calendar changes; they can follow us into the new year, even when we’re tired and worn out. 

Trying to be perfect, to live up to unrealistic standards, is exhausting. So, instead of battling with myself, I bring with me more acceptance, more self-compassion, and a commitment to listen to my body- I am ok!