New Year's Resolutions
Rethinking Resolutions: Why "New Year, New Me" Misses the Mark
At this time of year, commercials, magazines, and half of social media are buzzing with the phrase “New Year, New Me.” While the sentiment might seem motivating on the surface, it often carries a more harmful underlying message—especially for those recovering from eating disorders.
This messaging implies that who we are right now isn’t good enough. It fuels disordered thoughts by promoting restriction, overexercising, and body shame. It tells us we need to overhaul ourselves rather than honor the strength, growth, and resilience we've already shown.
Recognizing What You've Already Accomplished
Let’s pause and reflect:
Maybe you spent the last year working through grief, depression, or trauma. Your resilience matters.
Maybe you recognized a harmful pattern—like compulsive exercise—and had the courage to change it. That’s progress.
The “new me” narrative often ignores these deeply personal victories. But those wins are everything. They’re signs of awareness, intention, and healing. Resolutions that don’t acknowledge your story can feel like erasure.
Build From Your Strengths
Instead of viewing resolutions as a way to reinvent yourself, consider them a chance to build on who you already are:
If you advocated for others in 2019, let 2020 be about advocating for yourself.
If you started a demanding new job and lost touch with your passions, make space to reconnect with joy.
If your relationships shifted, focus on creating meaningful new connections.
And if last year was a season of struggle, therapy can help you explore that and start fresh.
Make Goals That Align With Your Values
The most empowering resolutions come from a place of self-compassion and alignment with your values—not shame or pressure. Ask yourself:
What strengths did I lean on this past year?
What relationships or habits brought me joy?
What would it look like to care for myself more deeply in the year ahead?
And most importantly: who can walk alongside me in this process?
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Kate Burns is a therapist at Empowering You, specializing in eating disorders. She is currently running an outpatient group for women seeking support in recovery.
If you’re ready to move into the new year with intention and support, contact us today. You deserve care that celebrates your progress and helps you grow forward.
