Change your New Year with Just One Word!

The year is over. In 2023 we experienced ups and downs, tears and laughter, satisfaction and disappointments; now we’re approaching 2024 with hope and anticipation (and for some, a little bit of concern).

 Many start the new journey around the sun with optimistic promises to better themselves. The famous “New Year’s Resolution” has been a staple in American life for countless people since before they can remember. We vow to exercise more, eat healthier, spend more time with family/loved ones - some people simply want to read more books.

 In reality, by the end of the year only 6% of people remain glued to their convictions. In fact one poll found New Year’s resolutions peter out in less than 4 months on average.

 Some believe we need a new way to progress in 2024: maybe a word, rather than a ‘resolution’ will do the trick. Various enthusiasts of this new approach have termed it a “nudge word.” It is a word not designed to describe lofty ambitions, but to keep us on track towards the person we want to be. It can structure our mindset, and lead us to a new outlook altogether. 

Wh do we want to become? What are the characteristics of this person we imagine we could be? How can we stay on track in a positive, self-empowering direction? Once someone begins seriously considering these questions they can discover the word for themselves.

The word is different for each individual. Everyone has their own goals, foibles, and intentions. Maybe the word is “Trust”, "Health”, or “Growth”. In fact it’s not really about specific goals at all. It’s about our lifestyle and how we see ourselves.

It helps to consider the depth of the word chosen. For example, if someone is afraid of public speaking they might first consider “acceptance” -  that they will accept speaking engagements despite their distaste for them. But perhaps they can go a step further. “Embrace” not only implies acceptance, but also that we can learn from the experience and (at least try) to find the good in it. This maximizes positivity and can change our mental reaction to the activity itself.

Here’s another example. “Discipline” may describe a trait we want to have more of, but “perseverance” includes not just discipline but the grit to stay on task even on challenging days. You get the picture.

It takes some time to consider how one word will be the perfect one for our own betterment. So what if we learned about nudge words just before New Year’s Eve? It’s not a problem! There’s no rule saying you NEED to figure it out by the first of January. You can start using it January 2nd, 5th, or the 10th! Maybe February is when you finally land on your word. It doesn’t matter. The whole point is to remind you of your intention to be the best you possible.

Once you determine the word, you can think of it as a mantra. Let it become a part of your life, and influence your future habits and actions.

We wish you a positive and joyful 2024! We’ll see you next year!

For further discussion about this topic please check out our podcast called “The Breakdown with Dr. B” available on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and other streaming sites as well as our website www.bregmanmedicalgroup.com

Bregman Medical Group has decades of experience treating a variety of issues/disorders. As we enter the new year, we look forward to helping people keep up with their mental health. We offer online psychiatry and therapy with treatment available right on your device at home! Simply schedule at www.bregmanmedicalgroup.com or call 305-740-3340.

References:

https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/new-years-resolutions-statistics/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2022/12/29/nudge-word-of-the-year-resolutions/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/12/28/nudge-words-resolutions-nostalgia/