GOAL GETTERS
FORGE A HOLISTIC PATH TO PERSONAL GROWTH By Hunter Harrell
A
t the beginning of a New Year, it’s clear to see how easily days slip into months, and months into years. Does the stroke of midnight bless some fortunate souls with the magic they need to reach their resolutions? The truth is each day is like any other: full of choices. Each year, various professionals from athletes and personal trainers to psychologists and wellness coaches (and writers, hello!) offer advice for people who set resolutions. But it’s often vague, which can be conflicting. For example, setting a measurable goal is a great tip. But what if an individual is more obsessed with making progress than recognizing how the change affects their lifestyle, relationships and well-being? Our daily energy isn’t unlimited. It takes effort and energy to achieve new goals, which can make many people feel like they are failing in other parts of their life. Looking at change or resolutions as a holistic practice rather than a win or lose process can help us to enrich our lives and achieve personal growth. Often, resolutions are framed around our worst habits. Instead, some goal getters, like me, offer another approach to popular resolutions: be more mindful of the opportunities ahead. Choices are challenging. Goal getters see those choices and challenges as opportunities to grow. A resolution is simply a more well-contrived plan to make better choices. If we understand the goal, start small, gather support, expect challenges and embrace failure as a learning opportunity, resolutions can help us face change with grace and perseverance.
10
FOUR CORNERS HEALTHY LIVING
