Not your cringe new year's post

In the first week of January, throw a stone around you and it will hit something or someone spewing out optimistic quotes, new year resolutions, fresh starts, turning over new leaves.

But as time proceeds, reality kicks in, challenges start fires in your mind and you are stuck putting them out. Optimism, motivation, resolutions take a back seat and eat dust until the next December arrives.

The we share memes like “Sometimes you have to say ew, and move on.” (I’ve been there done that)

Do we really want to be all talk and no action? Have you experienced how embarrassing it is to disappoint ourselves year after year because we didn't follow the rules we set out for ourselves?

Then this post is for you. It feels great to talk when you have actions to back it up, you know. And that’s why I decided to write about things you need to know to keep yourself positive and motivated throughout the year, what works and what doesn't.

1. January itself can come with a big challenge, you got to be prepared for it either way. “Just when I decided this was a new start and I would get my life on track, XYZ happened.”

   You never know what destiny has in store for you. Life can throw you curveballs anytime. And how you choose to deal with them is in your control. So be prepared to be optimistic in any scenario.

2. If you want to run your life smoothly, build a system. Relying on willpower and motivation isn’t enough. This is why people buy gym memberships in January and cancel it in March.

   Design routines and habits that automate your progress. Motivation fluctuates, but systems keep you moving. I’m talking about the kind of habits that keep you going even on your worst days - working out, drinking enough water, having nutritious meals, read fiction (it’s less stressful), journaling, perhaps practising some kind of art if you’re into it.

3. Wherever you are, improve and clean up the environment around you. Messy desk > messy thoughts > messy actions > messy life. And then you wonder how you ended up in such a chaos?!

   When you work sit in a bright environment with natural light. Open the windows, let the sun come in.

4. Create a support system. I can’t deny the importance of self love and acceptance. But we all know humans are social creatures. We seek comfort and validation in company we surround ourselves with - your partner, family, friends or colleagues.

   This year, be with people to encourage and support you. When I say “support”, I don’t mean gather a bunch of yes men to follow your footsteps. Surround yourself with people who you genuinely think have good intentions. Share your aspirations and lean on your community when motivation dips.

5. Last but not the least - acknowledge small wins. Celebrate your progress even if it’s not perfect.

   Maybe you got a raise, hit a PR at the gym, ran an extra mile, fell in love, got a new clients. Just go ahead and smile over the little things that make you want to get out of bed every morning. That’s life.

That’s it for now. I’ll catch you again soon. For more on lifestyle, productivity and mental clarity, follow @pranotihere on X.

For all the ladies here, if you’re curious about what my coaching looks like and wish to give it a shot, go ahead and book a trial discovery call with me here.