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Try Switching from Resolutions to I Want More of This! Lists and Watch What Happens

By Fran Braga Meininger January 15, 2024 Lifestyle

I’m not sure of the origin of the New Year’s resolution or how successfully this “tool” motivates others, but I do know the thought of it makes me bristle.

Resolutions have always felt disciplinary and regulatory, and the idea of deprivation or denial at this stage of my life sets me up to resist and ultimately fail. Doing without, living without, just doesn’t fit into my image of a full and engaged life – an emphasis on satisfaction and accomplishment serves me much better.

I Live in Contentment

I’ve arrived at a stage where I feel pretty content with myself and quite accepting of who I am as a mature woman. Granted there is always room for improvement, and I am always seeking ways to enrich my life, but I’ve now set my priorities away from wholesale change, opting instead to strive for more finely honed adjustments and orientations toward sustainable and lasting habits and efforts.

These days, I’m much more interested in adding to my life than subtracting from it. So, when I received a message from a dear friend containing a list of what she was looking forward to in 2024, and how she would strive for more of the activities, experiences and choices that will enhance her life, I was inspired. I was so excited about the idea that I compiled my own list, entitled, I Want More of This! and have promised myself it will be my road map through 2024, and probably beyond.

I Want More of This!

There’s something about granting myself permission to enjoy and appreciate what I can provide more of that motivates me, and the choice of more positive wording makes it all much more appealing. Here’s what I mean.

I have disregarded statements like:

  • I will exercise every day.
  • I will eat a healthy diet and avoid sugar and fat.
  • I will spend two hours writing every day.
  • I will adhere to a strict budget.

I have embraced lifestyle changes that feel much more interesting and pleasant, such as:

  • I will enjoy more time outside exploring trails surrounded by nature’s beauty.
  • I will choose more fresh and nutritious food to care for my body and give myself more energy.
  • I will spend more time every morning devoted to personal expression through writing.
  • I will reserve more money for my future, so I have adequate funds available for special purchases and occasions.

It might seem like a silly mind trick, but as Mary Poppins once said, “a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down.” Why not take a kinder and more encouraging approach to reaching our goals and living a better life?

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Is it difficult for you to accomplish your goals? Have you considered making different goals? What about goals to be authentic?

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16 Comments
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Ardith

Hi Fran! I soooooooo agree! Imagine yourself being/doing/feeling what it is you want…then the road to get there becomes open and easy. Let’s get back on the trails,
Ardith

Fran Meininger

Absolutely! Thanks for your comment, Ardith.
Fran

Donna

I decided that I won’t do resolutions but instead do what I truly need more of to help me with what brings me me! I chose to finish cleaning/clearing out my shed of things inherited, I don’t need, use, want or have a purposeful place in my life. I’m doing something different every month whether it’s trying a new food, visiting a new place, just getting out more. I’m also fixing me not you! Happy 2024. 🎉👏🏻🥰🙏☮️

Fran Meininger

I love this, Donna! It sounds like such a great way to add to the richness of your life.

Thank you for sharing it with us.
Fran

Robin Huff

Looking at it from this perspective, actually seems easier to do. Instead of demanding that you do this be kind to yourself. We as women have a hard time being kind to ourselves. I have found that when I made a resolution, it was like every other one and shortly disregarded. This is more encouraging and positive. Thank you for sharing.

Fran Meininger

Thank you for your insights, Robin. I agree, we need to be kind to ourselves, always.
I wish you the best,
Fran

Alisa

I think adopting this mindset might make things more attainable and more pleasant for me! Thank you for this!

Fran Meininger

Thank you for your enthusiasm, Alisa. Please let me know how it goes.

You can drop me a line at theyearsbeyondyouth.com I’d love to hear from you! Best,
Fran

Angie farrar

This is a great way to look at things. I’m going to try it out. Xx

Fran Meininger

Thank you, Angie. I hope you discover encouraging results.
Best Wishes,
Fran

The Author

Fran Braga Meininger writes personal narratives about the years beyond youth, a time in a woman’s life that can be vibrant, fulfilling, and wonderful, despite – or perhaps because of – all that comes with age. She lives in northern California where she hikes, bikes and lives life in big bites. You can visit her website at https://www.theyearsbeyondyouth.com

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