New Years Resolutions 2025

It's that time of year again when we all feel the need to have a fresh start and become a new and better version of ourselves. As the calendar turns, there is an undeniable sense of renewal in the air, a collective yearning to shed the burdens of the past year and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead. I've engaged in the tradition of making new year's resolutions for most of my adult life, a practice that many of us can relate to. However, like a lot of us, by the end of January or the start of February, often found ourself slipping back into old habits, abandoning the ambitious goals we set just weeks prior. This cycle of enthusiasm followed by disappointment seems to repeat itself year after year, leading to not revisit the subject until the next new year rolls around.

This year, however, I am determined to take a different approach. I’m going to go through my new year's resolutions in detail, exploring not only what they are but also the underlying reasons that have prompted me to make these commitments. I want to delve into the motivations behind each resolution, as understanding why I want to make these changes. Additionally, I will outline the specific strategies I plan to implement in order to keep myself on track throughout the year. By setting clear, actionable steps and holding myself accountable, I hope that this year will truly be the one where I can transform my life for the better and emerge as a stronger, more fulfilled version of myself.

In the past, my resolutions have ranged from the typical goals of losing weight and exercising more to more personal aspirations like improving my mental health and nurturing my relationships. Each year, I would start out with great enthusiasm, perhaps even creating a vision board or jotting down my goals in a journal, but as the days turned into weeks, that initial excitement would wane. I plan to choose resolutions that resonate deeply with my values and long-term aspirations, ensuring they are not just fleeting whims. By doing so, I hope to cultivate a sense of purpose and commitment that will help me persevere even when motivation dips.

Furthermore, I will implement practical tools to monitor my progress, such as setting up regular check-ins with myself, using apps to track my habits, and even seeking support from friends and family who can encourage me along the way. I believe that by fostering a supportive environment, I can create a network of accountability that will help me stay focused on my goals. I am genuinely hopeful that this year will not just be another cycle of resolutions but a transformative journey towards becoming a better me.

1) Try to live a healthier lifestyle and lose weight weight.

Throughout my life, I have struggled with maintaining a positive relationship with food, which has inevitably led to numerous health issues related to my weight. It's important to recognize that your weight does not define your identity, nor does it diminish your worth as an incredible, beautiful, or handsome individual. However, it is also a common understanding that being overweight can come with its own set of challenges and complications that can affect both physical and mental well-being.

This year, I am committed to embarking on a journey to reach a healthier weight and to actively work on transforming some of the unhealthy habits that I have unfortunately adopted over time. It’s a personal goal that I believe will not only improve my physical health but also my overall quality of life.

Reflecting on my past, I can relate to many who have experienced similar situations. Three years ago, I met the love of my life, and like many individuals in a loving relationship, I found myself becoming complacent. I gradually let go of the healthy habits I had cultivated over the years, which has made it difficult to maintain a balanced lifestyle. It’s a common story, but one that I am determined to change as I prioritise my health once again.

I will be using an app that I have utilized in the past called Lose It. This application is particularly user-friendly and offers a range of features that can assist in managing my weight loss journey effectively. One of the significant advantages of Lose It is that it can be used for free, which makes it accessible to a wide audience. However, for those who wish to enhance their experience, there is an option to pay £30 per year, unlocking several added benefits that can further aid in achieving personal health goals. These premium features may include advanced tracking options, personalized insights, and access to a broader database of foods, which can be incredibly useful for someone who is serious about their weight management.

In addition to utilizing the Lose It app, I plan to maintain a journal where I will track my emotions and write down various recipe ideas. This practice of journaling is not only therapeutic but also serves as a valuable tool for self-reflection. By documenting my feelings, I can better understand my emotional triggers related to eating and develop healthier coping strategies. Writing down recipe ideas will encourage me to experiment with nutritious meals, ensuring that I have a repertoire of healthy options at my disposal. This proactive approach is intended to keep me motivated and focused on my goals.

Furthermore, I will be creating detailed shopping lists before heading to the grocery store. This strategy is crucial, as it allows me to have a clear plan of what I need to purchase, minimizing the chances of impulse buying. Wandering aimlessly around the store can often lead to picking up items that are not aligned with my healthier goals, which could derail my progress. By having a list, I can ensure that I am only buying what is necessary and beneficial for my diet, which will ultimately contribute to my weight loss efforts. This organized method of shopping will help me stay disciplined and committed to my healthier lifestyle choices, making it easier to lose weight and maintain a balanced diet. Overall, the combination of using the Lose It app, journaling my emotions and recipes, and preparing shopping lists will create a comprehensive strategy that supports my journey toward better health.

2) I want to start walking more.

In the past, I used to take my dog for long walks, dedicating at least 40 minutes each day to this activity, often going out twice a day. It was a wonderful routine that not only benefited my dog but also contributed significantly to my own physical fitness. Nowadays, while my dog still enjoys his walks, I have fallen into the habit of simply tossing a ball for him instead of engaging in a more active walking routine. This allows my dog to get his exercise, but I find myself missing out on the physical activity I desperately need.

To remedy this situation, I plan to establish a consistent schedule for walking my dog every day. While the time may vary, having a set routine will help ensure that I don’t forget to take him out, especially during my busier days. This commitment will serve as a reminder for me to prioritise my physical health while also giving my dog the exercise he deserves.

Additionally, I intend to start wearing my Apple Watch again as a motivational tool to keep track of my daily steps. I find the feature that prompts you to stand up and move particularly useful, as it encourages me to break up long periods of inactivity. By setting daily step goals and tracking my progress, I hope to reignite my passion for movement and make walking an integral part of my daily routine once more.

3) Get more sleep.

Throughout my life, I have never been the best sleeper, but as I age, my sleep quality seems to be deteriorating even further. After delving into my plan for a healthier lifestyle, I have come to realize that improving my sleep is crucial for successful weight loss and overall well-being. Quality sleep plays a vital role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, and is essential for maintaining a healthy weight.

Moreover, I have faced my own struggles with mental health, and I have learned that a good night’s sleep significantly contributes to lower stress levels and reduced anxiety. By prioritising rest and establishing a calming bedtime routine, I can create an environment conducive to sleep, allowing my body and mind to recharge effectively. This year, I aim to focus on improving my sleep by setting a consistent bedtime, limiting screen time before bed, and creating a peaceful atmosphere in my bedroom. By committing to these changes, I hope to enhance both my physical health and mental clarity, paving the way for a more balanced and fulfilling life.

4) Read A Book At Least One A Month

Historically, I have not been an avid reader, primarily due to the challenges posed by my dyslexia. This condition has made the act of reading a daunting task, often resulting in frustration and fatigue. However, it is widely acknowledged that engaging in reading, particularly in the evening, can be a significantly healthier alternative to being glued to your phone or watching television. Like many others, I often find myself absorbed in the glow of my screen, whether it’s scrolling through social media, binge-watching a series, or playing games, right up until the moment I tuck myself into bed.

Research conducted by scientists has revealed that the blue light emitted from screens can have a detrimental effect on the quality of our sleep. This artificial light interferes with the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle, leading to difficulties in falling asleep and achieving restorative rest. The implications of this can be far-reaching, affecting not just our mood and energy levels, but also our overall health and well-being.

In light of these findings, I have decided to take a proactive approach to improve my nighttime routine. I plan to set an alarm that will signal when it's time to start winding down for the evening. This will serve as my cue to put away electronic devices and instead reach for a book. I envision this time as an opportunity to immerse myself in different worlds, ideas, and stories, allowing my mind to relax and prepare for sleep. I will dedicate this time to reading until I feel my eyelids growing heavy and my mind becoming calm, signaling that I am ready to drift off into a peaceful slumber.

My ambitious goal is to read at least one book each month. To hold myself accountable and to reflect on my reading journey, I will write a review for each book I complete. This review will encompass my thoughts on the narrative, the characters, and the themes presented, as well as an assessment of whether I believe the book is worth recommending to others. By doing this, I hope not only to enhance my own reading experience but also to share my insights with friends and fellow readers, creating a community of literary exploration and discussion.

5) Start doing yoga and meditation again.

Before my fiancé and I met, I had established a fulfilling routine that included practicing yoga every morning, and on some occasions, I would even incorporate a session at night to unwind and reflect on the day. However, over the past three years, as life became more intertwined with my partner’s routine and our shared commitments grew, I found myself gradually neglecting my own personal wellness practices. This neglect has made me realize just how much I have been missing the calming and centering effects of yoga and meditation, especially in the mornings. I vividly recall how these practices not only enhanced my physical flexibility and strength but also significantly improved my mental clarity and emotional well-being. It used to be that on the days I dedicated time to yoga and meditation before diving into the hustle and bustle of daily responsibilities, I felt far more equipped to handle whatever challenges came my way. My stress levels were noticeably lower, and I approached my tasks with a sense of calm and focus that was hard to achieve otherwise.

With this realisation in mind, I am now committed to reintegrating yoga into my daily routine as a non-negotiable part of my mornings. I envision waking up early, even on the days when work beckons me, to carve out that precious time for myself. This commitment is not just about physical practice; it’s about nurturing my mental health and emotional resilience. I plan to explore various styles of yoga, from gentle Hatha to more invigorating Vinyasa flows, ensuring that I am not only getting a workout but also cultivating mindfulness and tranquility. I believe that by starting my day with intention and purpose through yoga and meditation, I will create a solid foundation for a day that is less filled with stress and more aligned with my personal goals and well-being. This journey back to my practice is not just a return to a routine; it is a conscious choice to prioritise my health and happiness, allowing me to be the best version of myself for both my partner and. for myself.

6) Make more time for myself.

In the last couple of years, a significant number of changes have unfolded in my life, reshaping my daily routines and priorities in ways I had not anticipated. During this period, I found myself consistently placing the needs and desires of others above my own, a choice I made willingly and wholeheartedly because I love these people dearly. However, this selfless approach has inevitably led to the neglect of my own well-being and personal needs, causing me to feel somewhat lost and overwhelmed. As I reflect on the past, I realize that I have inadvertently pushed my own desires to the back burner, and this year, I am determined to initiate a transformative change in this pattern. I want to emphasize that while I am committed to continuing to care for my family—who truly are my entire world—I am also recognizing the vital importance of carving out dedicated time for myself. It has been far too long since I can recall having a day entirely to myself, a day where I can indulge in self-care rituals such as enjoying a long, hot shower, applying soothing face masks, and simply unwinding in front of the television while indulging in my favorite junk food. These activities may seem trivial to some, but they hold immense value for me as a means of recharging my spirit and rejuvenating my mind. To facilitate this shift towards prioritizing my own needs, I understand that I must become more organized and intentional with my time management. I envision establishing a routine that allows for at least one day each week dedicated solely to self-care, a sanctuary of time where I can focus on nurturing myself without distractions or obligations. This could involve planning my week in advance, setting boundaries to protect my personal time, and perhaps even communicating my intentions with my family so they understand the importance of this commitment to my own well-being. By doing so, I hope to create a balanced environment where I can thrive both as a caregiver and as an individual, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

7) Quit smoking

I've had this bad habit for about 6 years, and I really need to stop. The journey of trying to quit has been challenging, filled with various attempts and setbacks. I’ve experimented with different methods, including vaping, which many people claim is a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, I’ve found that while it may reduce some of the harmful effects associated with smoking, it hasn’t completely resolved my dependency on nicotine. Each time I try to quit, I am met with a wave of anxiety that seems to push me back into the comforting embrace of a cigarette. This is a common struggle for many, as the act of smoking has often served as a coping mechanism for dealing with stress and anxiety. The reality, however, is that smoking is an expensive and unhealthy habit that takes a toll not just on my finances but also on my overall well-being. The cost of cigarettes adds up quickly, draining my budget and limiting my ability to spend on other important things in life. Moreover, the health risks associated with smoking are well-documented; they include serious conditions such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues, which could significantly impact my quality of life in the long run. I’ve started to realize that the temporary relief I feel when I smoke does not outweigh the long-term consequences of continuing this habit. I’ve been researching various strategies to quit, such as seeking support from friends and family, participating in smoking cessation programs, and considering nicotine replacement therapies. Each of these options presents its own set of challenges, but I am committed to finding a solution that works for me. Ultimately, quitting smoking is not just about breaking a habit; it’s about reclaiming my health, my finances, and my peace of mind. I am determined to overcome this hurdle and embrace a healthier lifestyle, one that does not rely on cigarettes to manage my anxiety. The journey may be tough, but I am ready to take it one step at a time, looking forward to a future where I can breathe easier and feel better, free from the chains of smoking.

8) Try to drink more water

Throughout my life, I have come to realize that I have never truly consumed enough water on a daily basis. This has been a persistent issue for me, particularly because my partner is an enthusiastic drinker of Coke Zero, which has further influenced my own beverage choices. The convenience of grabbing a can of Coke or a can of Monster energy drink, especially when I am rushed off my feet and juggling multiple tasks, often outweighs the effort it takes to pour myself a glass of water. I find myself reaching for these sugary or caffeinated options far too often, which is not ideal for my overall health and hydration levels.

In an attempt to remedy this situation, I have invested in a variety of water bottles, including some stylish Stanley cups that promise to keep beverages cold for extended periods. I have also tried numerous mugs with different designs and functionalities, each one aimed at encouraging me to drink more water throughout the day. Despite these efforts, I still struggle to develop a consistent habit of hydration. It can be challenging to remember to take a sip when I am busy, and I often overlook the importance of maintaining proper hydration.

Moreover, I am beginning to understand the significant benefits of drinking more water, not just for hydration, but also for my overall well-being. Staying properly hydrated can improve my energy levels, enhance my concentration, and even contribute to better skin health. As I continue to explore different strategies to increase my water intake, I am hopeful that I will find a routine that works for me, allowing me to prioritize my health while also managing my busy lifestyle.

In addition, I am considering setting reminders on my phone to prompt me to drink water at regular intervals throughout the day. This small change could make a big difference in my hydration habits. I am also exploring the idea of infusing my water with fruits or herbs to add some flavor, making it more appealing to drink. Ultimately, my goal is to shift my focus away from sugary drinks and towards a healthier, more balanced approach to hydration.

9) Go back to gysting - Get your shit together

Let's go back to the organising side of my life. Like I was talking about earlier, my life has lost most of its organising structure, which has led to a sense of chaos and confusion that permeates my daily routine. It feels as though the once-clear pathways I had established for myself have become overgrown with distractions and disarray. I used to have a clear system in place, where everything from my schedule to my physical space was meticulously arranged to foster productivity and peace of mind. However, over time, various commitments and unexpected challenges have disrupted this delicate balance.

In revisiting the concept of gysting, I aim to reclaim that sense of order and purpose that has been elusive for so long. This involves not only reorganizing my physical environment but also reassessing my priorities and how I allocate my time. I want to create a framework that allows me to focus on what truly matters, eliminating the unnecessary clutter that has accumulated in both my mental and physical spaces. By re-establishing a methodical approach to my life, I can better navigate my responsibilities and aspirations, ensuring that I am not just reacting to circumstances but actively shaping my path forward.

To achieve this, I will start by setting aside dedicated time each week to evaluate my commitments and tasks. This reflection will help me identify what is essential and what can be let go. Additionally, I will implement tools and strategies that support organisation, such as digital planners or physical notebooks, to track my goals and daily activities. Creating a designated space for important documents and materials will also play a crucial role in maintaining clarity and focus in my environment.

Ultimately, going back to gysting is not merely about tidying up; it is about cultivating a lifestyle that promotes clarity, efficiency, and intentionality. By embracing this journey of reorganisation, I can pave the way for a more fulfilling and balanced life, where I can thrive rather than merely survive amidst the chaos.

Will you be making resolutions for 2025

• Yes
• No