Are you on the New Year, New You train? Some people are totally worn out on the idea and are just striving to do their best, be their best, and live their best day by day no matter what position the calendar is in. And there are others who really thrive on this time of year and find that it gives them purpose and focus.

If it’s a mindset reset you’re chasing, maybe consider a reset in your approach. Statistically, most Americans have bad history and a lot of baggage from resolutions (80% of resolutions fail). If the traditional resolution hasn’t been working for you, maybe one of these alternative approaches will.

MAKE A WORD OF THE YEAR

This trend has seen a lot of growth in the past five or so years, and goes deeper than a basic resolution. Followers of the practice choose a single word that wholly encapsulates their personal goals, changes they want to see, and focus for the year ahead. The word becomes a north star that can be easily used to gauge against and check in with. Some examples include:

• Intention
• Change
• Confidence
• Savor
• Balance
• Patience
• Kindness
• Flow
• Space
• Commit
• Courage
• Joy
• Be
• Release

SET A GOAL, NOT A RESOLUTION

Forbes highlights the difference as goals being specific, where resolutions are broad or vague. Because goals are actionable, and have a more narrow scope, they’re more effective, and ultimately, more attainable. Following the SMART goal model can help you to define, focus, and achieve:

S - Specific

M - Measurable

A - Achievable

R - Realistic

T - Timely

Health and weight, financial, consumption/minimalism, organization and scheduling goals can all benefit from this model.

CREATE A BULLET JOURNAL

If a methodical approach to intention, focus, and mindfulness is what you crave, then this popular “practice disguised as a productivity system” (per the creator) could be just what you need to start the new year. To-do lists, goals, ideas, keepsakes, calendars, lists, and so much more find a consolidated place to co-exist, support one another, and keep it all together!

You can use their “official” notebooks and supplies, while others simply gather their favorite type of notebook and pens. It can be a beautiful creative outlet for doodles, stickers, and color, or can be a very analog, black and white record. There is prescribed structure, but it’s yours to make what you want.

RESOLVE NOT TO RESOLVE

And then there’s the mindset that doesn’t necessarily “need” any of these things.

Maybe you live by the 80/20 rule, moderation in all things all the time suits you.

Maybe you’re constantly striving to improve and that’s true whether it’s June 30 or January 1.

Maybe you’ve just got your life more together than the rest of us and could teach us how, too!

Regardless of the approach you do (or don’t) take...we hope it’s a happy, positive, strong year ahead!