The Psychology of Fresh Starts HOW THE NEW YEAR CAN INSPIRE POSITIVE CHANGE
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BY AYUSHI SINGH
he New Year is often a time of reflection and renewal. It’s a time when people set goals, make resolutions, and embark on new beginnings. The psychology behind this phenomenon lies in our innate desire for
change and the potential for a fresh start. Researchers gave a name to this psychological trick: the ‘fresh start effect.’ It’s that feeling of hitting the reset button, and, as Wharton behavioral economics Professor Katy Milkman points out: “People are more open to change when they feel they have a fresh start.” Here we’ll explore the psychology behind Fresh Starts and discuss how the New Year can inspire positive change in our lives… THE PSYCHOLOGY OF FRESH STARTS
The Feeling of Control. One of the key psychological factors driving fresh starts is the perception of control. When we start a new year, we feel like we have a clean slate and an opportunity to make positive changes. This perception gives us a sense of control, giving us confidence that we have the power to improve our lives. The Power of Symbolism. The New Year serves as a symbolic event that marks the beginning of a new cycle. It is a time for reflection, introspection, and goal setting. The act of setting a new year’s resolution provides a sense of renewal and purpose. It helps us define a clear direction and provides a framework for positive change. The Placebo Effect. There is a psychological phenomenon known as the placebo effect, which occurs when individuals experience positive changes because they believe they will receive a treatment or a desired outcome. The New Year provides us with a similar placebo effect. Simply believing that we are embarking on a fresh start can motivate us to make positive changes in our lives.
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