Following through on your mental health New Years Resolutions

Hey you, yes you, the one reading my blog for Dad Bod Summer.

First off, thanks for reading. It means a lot to me. This startup business thing is really, really hard.

Second off, Happy New Year. There's still one day left in the Larry David rule before you can no longer wish someone a Happy New Year.

I wanted to put together a blog on setting new years resolutions that revolve around your mental health. I'm going to share what has worked for me over the years and hopefully these tips can help everyone who reads this!

Setting realistic mental health resolutions

Setting realistic mental health resolutions is crucial for achieving long-term success. It's important to set achievable goals that are in line with your abilities and resources. Here's how you can set realistic mental health resolutions:

• Start with small, achievable goals to build momentum and confidence. Tiny weekly goals in January can let you start seeing some small wins and those wins mean a lot in your long-term growth.
• Be specific about what you want to accomplish and the steps you need to take.
• Focus on actions that are within your control and avoid setting unrealistic expectations.
• Regularly re-evaluate your resolutions to make adjustments based on your progress and circumstances.

Understanding your mental health goals

Setting mental health goals for the New Year can be a great way to focus on improving your well-being. When understanding your mental health goals, it's important to consider what specific areas of your mental health you want to work on. This could include managing stress, improving your self-care routine, seeking therapy, or adopting healthier coping mechanisms. I know this part sounds like it's not that big of a deal, but we all know how hard it can be to leave the house when you're depressed or anxious. Maybe a goal of yours can be to take two walks a week outside to enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise. Getting off of the couch and listening to some good music outside is a type of medicine that works wonders. Trust me. Remember to set realistic and achievable goals, don't put together a list for the first month or two of 2024 that's going to be impossible to achieve. In the beginning it's all about the small wins!

Creating a step-by-step action plan

It's important to create a step-by-step action plan to help you stay on track with your mental health New Year's resolutions. Break down each goal into smaller, manageable tasks, and assign a timeline to each one. This will help you stay organized and motivated as you work towards achieving your resolutions throughout the year. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself, and celebrate your progress along the way.

Implementing self-care routines

To implement self-care routines, you can start by creating a daily or weekly schedule to carve out time for yourself. Incorporate activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as meditation, exercise, or a hobby. Setting boundaries (yes, they exist, and yes, you're allowed to have hobbies outside of your career) with work and social commitments can help prioritize self-care. Additionally, consider seeking professional help or joining support groups to maintain mental well-being. Remember, self-care is not selfish, it is essential for your mental health.

Let's say that one more time for all of the people in the back, self-care is not selfish.

Overcoming obstacles and setbacks

It's normal to face obstacles and setbacks when working on your mental health resolutions. Remember that progress isn't always linear, and setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Here are a few tips to help you overcome obstacles:

• Reflect on Your Progress: Take some time to look back on how far you've come since making your resolutions. Even small victories are worth celebrating.

• Adjust Your Expectations: Recognize that setbacks are a common part of the process. Be patient with yourself and embrace the journey, knowing that there will be ups and downs.

• Seek Support: Don't be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or a mental health professional. They can offer valuable support and guidance during challenging times.

• Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Beating yourself up over setbacks will only make it harder to move forward.

Remember, setbacks don't define your journey. Keep pushing forward, and be proud of the progress you've made.

Tracking progress and making adjustments

To keep track of your mental health resolutions, it's important to monitor your progress regularly. This can include journaling, using a mood tracker app, or scheduling regular check-ins with a therapist or support group. By monitoring your progress, you can identify what's working well and what changes may be necessary to achieve your mental health goals. Making adjustments along the way is a normal part of the process, so stay open to adapting your strategies to better suit your needs.

Celebrating small victories

It's important to celebrate the small wins on your mental health journey. Acknowledging and appreciating the little achievements can provide motivation and encouragement to keep moving forward. Whether it's making it through a tough day, reaching out for support, or practicing self-care, each small victory contributes to your overall progress. By recognizing and celebrating these moments, you can boost your confidence and reinforce positive habits.

Reflect on the strides you've made and the challenges you've encountered. Set new achievable goals and revisit your strategies, ensuring they align with your current needs. By acknowledging your achievements and adjusting your plans, you can continue to prioritize your mental well-being effectively.

At Dad Bod Summer, we'd love to be the go-to community and brand for feeling comfortable talking about your mental health.

2024 is going to be a great year for Dad Bod Summer and we are going to get through this together, I promise!