2025 is upon us- the planners are out, the vision boards are in full effect, and we're playing bingo with our achivements. While planning has always been apart of new year traditions with resolutions like the typical dry January or starting a new fitness journey. Why do we wait until the new year to do things we know we should be doing anyway? Is there some revelation when the clock strikes 12 that sets something in our brain to activate the change or is it just because we feel like we have to? Theres so much pressure when it comes to the new year and if you're like me and have looked on any of the 100 social media platforms- this January is like the self-improvement olyimpics and guess what? Theres no prize!
Even before the new year, planning and setting goals have become the center of our reality in society. It seems like everyone is preparing for Q2 and we just got to Q1. A wise man once said (rapper Lil Uzi Vert) " It's only my third day out here". Don't get me wrong, having ambition, setting goals, and making a plan to achieve those goals is amazing. It shows that you are being specific with your future which is admirable. However, it can get toxic because you're blind to the magic of the moment, lost in the chase for what's yet to come.
I am guilty of this as well, I'm always thinking of what I can improve on. How I can be a better friend, daughter, aunt, sister, niece, and especially a better professional. It can drive you crazy! But it's all done with the hopes of becoming a better person. While it's great to want to grow and develop- it's also important to know that who you are right now is pretty darn great.
Here are some ways you can visualize growing slowly with intention and care.
- Creating a Mantra: A mantra is a a statement that you repeat to remind yourself of how you want to approach your life.
- Vibe Board: This may sound similar to a moodboard but it's less rigid and more free flowing. Getting only images of things that you love no words. It can be tangible or digital. I personally love to make mine digital and include images of vylnl's that accompany the vibe invision.
- Mind Mapping: This is something that I've done since 2022. It's a different approach to writing a list that is a more creative while still showcasing the specific elements of what you want to accomplish.
Let’s shift our perspective on self-improvement to make it less overwhelming. This new year, focus on setting realistic goals that bring a sense of fulfillment naturally—without leading to burnout. Stay self-aware and accountable, but don’t forget to extend yourself grace along the way.