A Time for Reflection and New Beginnings
As January unfolds, many individuals take this opportunity for self-reflection and to set goals for improvement in the coming year. Approximately 21% of Americans aim to save more money in 2025, while 19% want to eat healthier and 17% plan to increase their exercise routine, according to Statista.
In a shift toward mental well-being, some prefer to focus on emotional growth. Last year’s goal was to alleviate stress by letting go of rigid life deadlines, and many have found this liberating.
1. Letting Go of Grudges
A common resolution is to release past grudges. Many individuals carry anger from unresolved conflicts, whether from family issues or unreciprocated feelings. Psychologists emphasize the *positive effects* of forgiving those who may have wronged us, which can alleviate anxiety and bolster self-esteem.
Jessica Weiss, a happiness expert, states, ‘You can let go of grudges completely on your own.’ This can be articulated through unwritten letters to those who impacted your life negatively to release lingering resentment.
2. Improving Listening Skills
Another vital resolution is to become a better listener. Often, people find themselves preparing their response while the other person is still speaking. Weiss emphasizes that genuine listening fosters connection, ‘When people feel that they’ve been heard, they’re naturally going to like you more.’ Strategies, such as asking questions instead of merely asserting statements, can empower this transition.
3. Prioritizing Reading
With the rise of distractions, dedicating time each day to reading can present challenges, particularly for individuals with ADHD. Weiss points out that ‘reading offers many benefits similar to meditation’ and recommends reading for just *20 minutes a day*, paving the way for greater relaxation and mental clarity.
To maintain momentum with resolutions, setting small, manageable goals can yield significant progress, Weiss advises. Celebrate every small win on the path to larger achievements.
Interested in enhancing your productivity with AI? Check out CNBC’s new online course.
Subscribe to CNBC Make It’s newsletter for practical tips on success.
Comments are closed