I have this theory that the reason why most people choose the new year to start their “personal transformation” is that it’s socially acceptable.
Throughout the year, each one of us develops these desires for change. We’re able to see glimpses of the best version of ourselves and feel compelled to act and pursue them.
Yet, most times, for most people, that’s not what happens.
Maybe it’s because they’re facing internal resistance and they don’t seem to able to fight it off. What Andrew Huberman calls “Lymbic Resistance”.
However, a lot of the time is not due to our own emotional state towards change but because of others.
What will others think about this?
How are people going to react to this specific change I want to make?
Will they support me? Will they mock me?
If you really want to transmute yourself into something else, you’ll need to be ready to deal with that outside feedback, regardless if positive or negative. Of course, it’s easier if you find a peer group, but if that’s not possible you need to find a strong reason to embark on that journey.
However, all these “difficulties” ease in the new year. Because it’s socially acceptable to make these promises of change. In fact, at this time of the year, not wanting to set goals or intentions is actually the contrarian thing to do.
But here’s the thing. The moment you had the insight into what could you do to change your life was the best moment to act upon that idea. You were emotionally connected. It made sense. Right now? Others may be willing to give you a chance but…do you still want it the same way? Do you want it at all?
Having a strong reason for changing something in a new year is indispensable. Otherwise, even though other people may support you, you’ll end up not getting where you want.
So, what can we do, people wanting to start a “new chapter” starting tomorrow?
Well, here’s my answer.
Find the minimal viable action you can take towards that goal you have.
You want to start reading? Read for 1 min a day.
You want to start exercising? Do 3 squats a day.
Regardless of your goal, find your MVA and practice it until it becomes part of your nature and allows for the emergence of a new, slightly harder MVA.
One last thing.
While you’re at it, try to find the MVA you do to make the world a better place in 2023.
We could all benefit from that.
May this year bring you everything you want and need.
See you all tomorrow.
Thank you for your beautifull advice, it totally makes sense to me!
I dont relate much to the NY celebration, because it has nothing to do with my own timing. Usually around october/November I stop and reflect on my life, acomplishments, troubles etc, and put my intentons for the next cycle. But the next cycle requires to finish, to end on going situations.
And that does not happen with the new years timing. So usually I take this time to rest, to re-think any methods as I have nothing to celebrate at this time.
But I wish you a great new cycle, hope you keep writting even after you finish 100 days challenge. The type of topics, inspiration you are sharing this time is really nice to read and specially to relate. So please keep going I'm enjoying it 😊
Happy New Year 2023 🎉