Girls Night #282: Rethinking Resolutions: A Gentler (and More Effective!) Approach to Personal Growth in the New Year — with Stephanie May Wilson
Dec 16, 2024
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In a heartfelt closing for the year, the host reflects on the significance of personal growth and the journey ahead. The conversation emphasizes self-discovery amidst societal pressures, celebrating achievements, and nurturing ambitions. There's a fresh take on New Year's resolutions, advocating for a gentler, more intentional approach. The importance of setting individual intentions shines through, encouraging listeners to create their own fulfilling paths as they step into the possibilities of 2025.
Reflecting on the past year is essential for personal growth, enabling individuals to recognize achievements and learn from challenges.
Setting intentions instead of rigid resolutions fosters flexibility, guiding individuals towards goals while allowing for adaptability throughout the year.
Deep dives
The Value of Therapy
Therapy can significantly impact mental health, providing comfort and support during difficult times. Many people experience anxiety, depression, or feelings of being overwhelmed, making it crucial to seek help. Finding a therapist you trust can be challenging, but utilizing online platforms like BetterHelp can simplify the process and make therapy more accessible. Therapy is a journey that can lead to life-changing insights and coping strategies, affirming that individuals are not alone in their struggles.
Creating a Life You Love
The year 2024 was marked by the theme of 'Create a Life You Love,' reflecting on the host's book that focuses on making empowering choices amid societal pressures. This core message encourages women in their late 20s and 30s to navigate significant life decisions regarding relationships, career paths, and personal desires. The book serves as a guide to help readers silence external opinions and prioritize their aspirations, demonstrating that there is no singular way to build a fulfilling life. By sharing her journey as a chronic people pleaser, the host illustrates the power of reclaiming one's narrative and making authentic decisions.
Reflecting on Personal Growth
As the year comes to a close, reflecting on personal experiences and growth becomes vital for moving forward. The process of reviewing the past year allows individuals to acknowledge achievements, learn from challenges, and set the stage for the future. The host emphasizes the importance of documenting insights gained throughout the year, akin to athletes reviewing their performance to enhance future successes. This reflective practice enables a clearer understanding of one's journey and fosters a sense of gratitude and closure.
Setting Intentions for the New Year
As part of welcoming the new year, setting intentions rather than rigid New Year's resolutions can promote a more flexible and compassionate approach to personal goals. Intentions focus on guiding individuals toward desired outcomes while allowing for grace and adaptability throughout the year. By choosing to establish a clear direction for the future, individuals can avoid being swept along by external influences or indecision. This practice underscores the significance of strategic planning for achieving personal growth, reinforcing that each day provides an opportunity for new beginnings.
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but today is our very last Girls Night episode of 2024 and of Season 19! I’m closing us out with a solo episode — we're chatting about how to reflect on the past year and prepare for the year ahead!
This episode was inspired by the project I’ve been working on for the past few months, but really the past few years, and that’s my New Years Reflection & Intention Journal. In it, I finally get to introduce you to the New Year's Journaling process I’ve been doing for the last ten years.
Friends, 2025 is full of possibilities, and it all begins with a clear vision and intentional steps. Today’s episode is going to help us take action toward the life we actually want to live.
I can’t wait for you to tune in!
P.S. We will be back for Season 20 of Girls Night in February of 2025! We have incredible guests and topics in store for you!