The Daunting Of A New Year

Embracing the New Year Without the Pressure: It’s Okay to Take It Slow

As the year winds down, many of us feel the weight of reflection, thinking about the highs, the lows, and everything in between. But for those who have faced mental health struggles, looking back can sometimes feel more daunting than inspiring. It’s easy to get lost in the overwhelming memories of challenges and setbacks, and it can seem impossible to spot the moments of joy or growth amidst the struggle.

But here’s a simple truth: It’s okay if the biggest thing you accomplished this year was simply surviving.

The Pressure of New Year's Resolutions

When we think about New Year's resolutions, they often come with a lot of unspoken expectations. We’re told it’s the time to start fresh, to set ambitious goals, and to transform our lives immediately. But for many, this idea feels more like an abundance of pressure rather than an opportunity. The thought of having to do everything right away, and then keeping up with it consistently, can be overwhelming.

If you’re struggling mentally or emotionally, this pressure to "do it all" can feel like failure waiting to happen. The problem is that we tend to equate success with constant productivity and progress, but in reality, success can also mean showing up for yourself, even if it's in the smallest of ways.

So, if you’ve set goals for the year ahead, that’s great, but try to remember that you don’t have to rush. You don’t have to change everything at once, and you certainly don’t need to be perfect at it. It’s okay to take your time. Goals, habits, and change take time to nurture, and it’s more than okay to go at your own pace.

Building lasting habits doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience, persistence, and self-compassion. Some days will be easier than others, and that’s okay. If you slip up, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed, it just means you’re human. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s okay to give yourself grace along the way.

Facing the New Year: It's Not a Race

The idea of starting a new year can feel like stepping into the unknown. The thought of facing another 365 days of uncertainty or hardship can be terrifying. But here’s something important to remember: You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. It's okay if you don’t have all the answers. It’s okay if you’re unsure about what’s ahead.

In fact, it's perfectly fine if your resolution is simply to be kind to yourself as you move through the year. If all you accomplish is taking things one step at a time, that’s a success in itself. Be gentle with yourself, take breaks when you need them, and remember that no matter where you are, you’re allowed to grow at your own pace.

So as you look ahead to the new year, remember: you are enough just as you are. You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to have all your goals set in stone. If all you can do is survive today, that’s okay. Each day is a new opportunity to move forward at your own pace, even if it’s just a small step. Just take it slow, breathe.