Embrace the Gentle Start

Dear Strong Woman,

Embrace the gentle start.
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New Year’s Energy often has us feeling like we need to hit the ground running right out of the gate. Ironically, the timing of this occurs in winter - a season of slowing down, lower energy, resting, and restoring.

Any hard and fast energy, disciplined and unflinching, feels counterintuitive to me. In past years I’d pull a tried-and-true “What’s wrong with me?” card, questioning whether or not I’m serious about my goals. (Our ego is so self centered like that.).

But what if we worked WITH the energy of the season rather than in spite of it?

I’m suggesting what could be a game-changing approach to new year goals, and that’s to ease into them with purpose and tons of grace. Here’s why I think a slow approach is not just okay, but a power play move:

Mindful Momentum: Instead of sprinting out of the gate, consider a steady jog. Let’s give ourself the gift of mindful momentum, allowing our goals to unfold naturally without the pressure of an all-or-nothing sprint.

Build Sustainable Habits: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are lasting habits. Easing into our goals allows us to build a sustainable practices that become an integral part of our daily lives.

Reflect & Refine: Slow starts provide the perfect opportunity for reflection. We can take a moment to assess our goals, refine our approach, and set ourselves up for success with a well-thought-out plan.

Celebrate Small Wins: My clients are laughing reading this, remember all the times I’ve asked them how they are celebrating. And that’s because it’s important! Being adults does not mean we are “too old” for those dangling carrots! Every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory. Easing into the new year allows us to celebrate those small and very important foundational wins, fostering a positive mindset that fuels our journey.

Prioritize Self-Care: Rushing into the new year can lead to burnout. (Hence why so many of us give up on those goals by mid-February.). Taking it slow allows us to prioritize our self-care, ensuring we have the energy and resilience needed to tackle our goals with enthusiasm.

Enjoy the Journey: It’s not a self-help post without a cliche but true saying! So here it is - Life is about the journey, not the destination. Easing into the new year encourages us to savor (a value word of mine) the process, relishing in each step forward and finding joy in the pursuit of our dreams. Yes - JOY! Not shame, guilt, self-judgement. What a concept!

Set Realistic Expectations: Slow starts help set realistic expectations. Acknowledge that progress takes time (ahem, note to self!), and by easing into taking action, we are setting the stage for a sustainable and achieveable path.

Remember, Strong Woman - it’s not about how quickly you start; it’s about the consistency and intention behind every step. This year, let’s usher in positive change with a gentle, purposeful approach.

Here’s to a year filled with progress, joy, and success.❤️