Rhythms Not Resolutions: A Gentler Approach to Change

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Hey mama, if you set a New Year’s Resolution for 2023 and are feeling discouraged, I invite you to join me. If you skipped the resolution altogether this year because you’re so focused on survival and just can’t, come with me.

I’d like to lead you somewhere a bit more gentle, a bit more sustainable, and a bit more loving. This year, let’s focus on rhythms, not resolutions.

Resolutions, especially the traditional ones, are big tough goals that often come with a dose of shame beneath them. (I’m looking at you, weight loss industry.)

Rhythms, on the other hand, bring to mind nature, the seasons, and the sun’s daily rise and fall. Think music. Dance. Swaying to a beat. Your own beat.

It’s creating a small repeatable habit custom fit for your life.

» » » » »  RELATED READ: Forget the New Year’s Resolution: Let’s Make a Joy Board!  « « « « «

Too “woo woo” for you? Okay, let’s get down to brass tacks. Rhythms, not resolutions. Here are some practical examples:

Resolution: I will stay in better contact with my clients this year.

Rhythm: I will make a recurring calendar alert right now for every six weeks, reminding me to draft an email to my clients.

Rhythms Not Resolutions

Resolution: I will drink more water this year.

Rhythm: When I wake up, the first thing I’ll do is drink a full glass of water at the sink.

Resolution: This year I will be a better advocate for those who need it.

Rhythm: Twice a month I will take an active advocacy action (e.g., pick up the phone, show up to march, write a letter to a representative).

Rhythms, not resolutions. Because resolutions are big ideas that often overwhelm us.

Rhythms are habits. Routines. Rituals even.

They take less thought and seem like tiny, almost inconsequential, tasks. At first glance, they may not seem like much. But the research shows that tiny habits add up.

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Change doesn’t have to mean big swings and tough sacrifices. By focusing on rhythms instead of resolutions, we can chip away at our big goals. And you can do it while giving yourself grace and space for the reality of motherhood in 2023.

So come with me, won’t you?

Let’s start a gentle revolution, one sustainable rhythm at a time.



The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.