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New Year, Same You: Embracing Who You Are As You Bloom

Writer's picture: Melissa McGlothrenMelissa McGlothren

With the start of a new year, the air is thick with resolutions: goals to improve, promises to get healthier, dreams of becoming the best version of ourselves. It’s like the collective world presses "reset," and suddenly, everyone’s ready to crush it. Am I right? Just scroll through social media, and you’ll see the flood of posts like, “THIS IS THE YEAR…2025!!!”  I mean hello, “It’s me, Hi, I’m the problem, it's me!!!” 


But then, here comes the big question: Why is long-lasting change so stinking hard? Why do we keep starting over every January? And most importantly…what’s wrong with me?


Well, let me let you in on a little secret: there’s absolutely nothing wrong with you. Change is tough. Breaking old habits and creating new ones is tough. Rewiring your brain? Yep, also tough. Let me explain. It’s all in the brain. Yes, that marvelous thing we call the "brain"!


You see, our brains are built to resist change. They prefer the status quo, the comfort of homeostasis. Even if that comfort zone isn’t doing us any favors anymore, it’s hard to break free. You’ve probably heard the term “creatures of habit.” Well, that’s exactly what we are. Our habits create neural pathways in our brains, and over time, those pathways get stronger, making it harder to take a different route. It’s like trying to create a new trail in the woods when the old one’s already well-worn and clear. But here’s the good news: Neuroplasticity (say it with me: “neuro-pla-sti-ci-ty”) is the brain's ability to change, adapt, and form new pathways. However, that doesn’t happen overnight. So if you’re feeling like change is an uphill battle, know this: you’re not alone, and there’s nothing wrong with you. It’s just your brain doing what brains do.


So, what now? How do we keep pushing forward when it feels like we’re constantly running into the same walls? Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but I’ve got a few tips to help you navigate the rocky road of change:

  1. Identify Your Why: Why do you want to make this change? Maybe you want to rock that new swimsuit with confidence, maybe you want to improve your health, or maybe you just want to be more present with your family. Whatever it is, pin down your reason and keep it in front of you. When the going gets tough (and it will), this is your fuel to keep moving forward.

  2. Set Small, Achievable Goals: When you’re in the thick of it, big goals can feel overwhelming. So break them down into small, manageable chunks. Want to be more active? Start with a 10-minute walk each day. Want to read more? Try 10 pages before bed. Celebrate those mini milestones! They’re the baby steps that build momentum and help you feel like a change-making pro.

  3. Lower Your Expectations (Seriously): Let’s be real: change is hard. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen in a week. So, cut yourself some slack. Lower those sky-high expectations and remind yourself that lasting change takes time. Be kind to yourself and celebrate the small victories along the way. Consistency is key, not perfection.

  4. Celebrate the Small Wins: This is your permission slip to throw yourself a mini celebration every time you hit a milestone, no matter how small. Did you make it through the week without hitting snooze on your alarm for the third time? High-five! Did you cook a healthy meal instead of ordering takeout? Give yourself a pat on the back! Remember: these small wins are the building blocks of lasting change.

  5. Give Yourself Grace: Lastly, let’s talk about the inevitable setbacks. We all experience them, so don’t beat yourself up if you revert to old habits now and then. It’s part of the process. Your brain is wired to resist change, and old patterns are comfortable. Rather than throwing in the towel, see setbacks as a natural part of the journey. Dust yourself off, adjust your course, and keep going. The key is to be gentle with yourself and stay committed to progress, not perfection.


So, my friend, whether you’re trying to eat healthier, exercise more, or just be more present in your life, remember: change is hard, but it’s possible. And it’s okay to take your time. Your brain might be stubborn, but it’s also capable of incredible transformation. Keep working on those goals, but don’t forget to embrace who you are right now, in this moment. You’ve got this. And trust me, this year? It’s going to be your year. Not because you’ve reinvented yourself, but because you’re learning to work with who you already are. And that’s a pretty awesome thing.


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