New Year, New Me?

As the New Year roles in, many people reflect on the age-old question, ‘Do I set resolutions again this year?’.

The dread of setting a goal, and then it falling off in a few weeks (or days.. or minutes…) keeps many from beginning in the first place.  Below are some affirming tips for our friends in the LGBTQIA+ communities on setting goals to be an opportunity for growth, self-acceptance, and empowerment. Embracing change can be a positive and transformative experience which will allow us to focus on mental health and well-being while staying true to ourselves.

Innovative Approaches to Goal Setting One way to begin the resolution process is through journaling or brainstorming ideas for setting your intention for the year. Consider creating a dedicated space in your journal to express thoughts and feelings about the past year, identifying areas you’d wish to improve or explore further. This leads to a skill we call “Mind mapping” which can allow us to visually connect different aspects of their lives, such as personal growth, relationships, and career aspirations. Maybe you want to build a closer LGBTQIA+ community? Maybe advocacy or volunteering would be a way to enrich next year? If you want to dig a little deeper, or a little more creative, expend this into a craft night vision board for the next year. Using exploration and creativity is a great way of making goal-setting a more engaging and fulfilling experience.

Utilizing SMART Criteria for Meaningful Goals Now let’s make that resolution work for you. When crafting your resolutions, you can benefit from using the SMART criteria—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. By setting a very specific and reachable goal, we can create a clear roadmap for their aspirations. For example, instead of resolving to “be healthier,” one might set a goal to “attend a weekly yoga class” or “Read an LGBTQIA+ novel written by a BIPOC author each month.” This specificity not only makes the goal more achievable but also connects it to community engagement, enhancing both physical and mental well-being.

Staying True to Oneself Amidst Change As the world continues to evolve, it’s essential for LGBTQ+ individuals to prioritize self-acceptance and authenticity in their resolutions. This can involve setting goals that reinforce personal identity and self-esteem, such as dedicating time for self-care, seeking out supportive communities, or engaging in advocacy work. By aligning resolutions with personal values and experiences, we can cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment that positively impacts mental health.

Building a Supportive Network Another vital aspect of successful resolution-setting is the importance of building a supportive, affirming network. Explore seeking accountability partners or join groups that align with goals, fostering connections that provide encouragement and motivation. Maybe there’s an inclusive book club, run club, or affirming faith community you’ve been considering? Sharing resolutions with friends or communities can create a sense of camaraderie and support, making the journey toward achieving goals feel less daunting. This collective approach can also lead to shared experiences, further enhancing personal growth.

A Fresh Start for Mental Health in the New Year Ultimately, the New Year presents an opportunity for you to embrace change and focus on mental health through SMART resolutions. By engaging in innovative goal-setting techniques, staying true to yourself, and building supportive networks, we can embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery and empowerment. Change is not only acceptable; it can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth, leading to a brighter, more authentic future. As the New Year unfolds, let’s celebrate the potential for new beginnings and the resilience of the LGBTQ+ communities.