Happy New Year: Now Go Love Yourself

Love yourself in the New Year

I have a love/hate relationship with New Years. I love the energy that people have — excited for new challenges and helping to motivate and inspire each other. People are taking time to think about what it is they want out of life, what is important and how to make it happen. On the other hand, thinking about a whole year ahead can be overwhelming. There can be a lot of pressure — to change how you look, how you feel, how you live. If you fall off track on your goals there can be a lot of self-hate, shame and guilt.

Imagine if this year you chose instead to love yourself, to really get to know you and appreciate you for all that you do.  Try complimenting yourself in the mirror instead of pointing out a fault. I dare you! See how it makes you feel! This year set a new standard for yourself. Treat yourself with respect and feel the difference. Surround yourself with positive people; try and end relationships with negative people or at the very least keep them at a distance. Choose to read uplifting stories, get involved in an organization helping others, listen to music you love, enjoy and appreciate the delicious natural food that comes from this Earth.

If you like the sound of that, then let this be your New Year’s Resolution:

“This year I will take it one day at a time. I will remember that all I have is today. All I can do is try my hardest. I will try to enjoy all of the tiny daily moments in life that make it feel full and warm. I will do my best to build up the people around me and spread love and strength. I will try my best to keep my cool and not get too overwhelmed, anxious and frustrated. But more importantly when I do get overwhelmed, anxious or frustrated (because I will), I am going to practice forgiving myself. I will figure out what I need in order to get back to where I want to be and I will keep moving forward. I will ask for help when I need it. I promise to love myself, take care of myself and be good to myself.”

You are the only one who can make the changes you need to in your life. Start today. You can do it!

Written by Kelly DiBenedetto, LMHC, ATR
Boston Post Adoption Resources

About Kelly DiBenedetto, LMHC, ATR

Kelly DiBenedetto, LMHC, ATR is Clinical Director at Boston Post Adoption Resources. To read her bio, please visit BPAR's Team page.