Values of Boundary Setting.

As I reflect on the first month of 2024 and the many plans, dedications and assertions made professionally, personally and within the walls of the clinic - the lessons floating to the surface seem to centre on exploring the discomfort inherent in setting boundaries.

Whether within the walls of the clinic or across the various domains of my own life as a mother, farmer, partner and friend, I've discovered that values-based work offers a powerful tool for addressing challenges related to boundaries (both setting them and holding firm!). This approach encourages you to be guided by your personal values and ethics, establishing clear parameters, and understanding the hierarchy of these values. This introspective process lays a solid foundation for navigating the complexities of setting boundaries.

It's important to acknowledge that genuine change rarely occurs within the confines of comfort. Opting for choices aligned with our values may bring about discomfort, but it is through this discomfort that we experience transformative growth. Embracing the difficulty of making choices that resonate with our authentic selves is a courageous act in itself.

I invite you to engage in meditation as a way to connect with internal discomfort. Pay attention to the physical sensations accompanying pain and the emotional resistance to conflict avoidance we often feel when setting or holding boundaries. Observe these sensations with curiosity, and empower yourself to take purposeful steps away from the path of least resistance. Envision walking against the current, moving steadfastly towards your values.

In essence, this coming month encourages us to stand firm in our values, even when faced with discomfort. Embracing the reality that the right choices may be accompanied by pain empowers us to navigate the currents of change with resilience and purpose.

May the insights from this month serve as a source of strength as we continue on the transformative journey of aligning our choices with our deepest values.

“Change Does Not Happen When You Are Comfortable”

Navigating New Year Resolutions: Expert Strategies for Holistic Well-being

The dawn of a new year often sparks a desire for positive change and self-improvement. As we set our sights on new goals and resolutions, it's crucial to approach them with a strategic mindset that promotes lasting success.

Start Small for Lasting Change

The adage "small steps lead to big changes" holds profound truth, especially when it comes to setting and achieving New Year's resolutions. Rather than overwhelming ourselves with grand, sweeping gestures that may be difficult to sustain, consider starting small. Practical, achievable goals not only make the process more manageable but also increase the likelihood of success.

For instance, instead of imposing a strict ban on all sweets, consider a more moderate approach. Swap out dessert with healthier alternatives like fruit or yogurt. This not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also makes the transition more gradual. By taking small steps, you'll avoid the feeling of deprivation, making it easier to stay committed to your resolutions and steadily move closer to your larger goals. Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Create Clearly Defined Goals with SMART Principles 

Setting goals is an integral part of any self-improvement journey, but vague or unrealistic resolutions can be challenging to achieve. Enter SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. By incorporating these principles, you create a roadmap that not only clarifies your objectives but also provides a systematic approach to track your progress.

For instance, if your resolution is to "exercise more," transform it into a SMART goal like "go for a 20-minute walk 3 times a week." This specific, measurable target ensures that you have a clear benchmark for success. As you achieve each milestone, you'll experience a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing your motivation to continue on your journey of self-improvement.

Understand When Old Habits Are Strongest

Change is often accompanied by challenges, and one of the greatest hurdles is dealing with the persistence of old habits. Recognising when these habits are most potent is a crucial step in overcoming them. Often, our environments and routines act as triggers that signal our brains to revert to familiar behaviors.

Take quitting smoking, for example. If you used to smoke when socializing with friends, the desire to smoke may intensify in similar social settings. By identifying these triggers, you empower yourself to anticipate and manage challenging situations. Understanding when old habits are strongest allows you to implement strategies to navigate these moments successfully.

A Season of Change: Nurturing Positive Messages

As we embark on this new year, it's important to acknowledge that resolutions related to weight loss and eating can sometimes reinforce negative messages about our bodies and perpetuate unrealistic stereotypes.  I work hard to fostering a supportive environment that encourages positive change without compromising the diversity of body shapes and sizes.

Rather than succumbing to societal pressures, we advocate for self-compassion and acceptance. Embracing a holistic approach to well-being involves recognising the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. By nurturing positive messages about our bodies, we empower ourselves to make sustainable and healthy choices that contribute to overall well-being.

Make 2024 Your Year of Positive Transformation and remember:

“Change does not happen when we’re comfortable”

As we embrace the opportunities that the new year presents as rural women and mothers, let's approach our resolutions with intention and expertise. By starting small, creating clearly defined goals, understanding our triggers, and nurturing positive messages about our bodies, we can foster lasting well-being. At RG Psychology we invite you to make 2024 a year of positive transformation and self-discovery. Together as rural women, let's navigate the path to holistic well-being and embrace the journey towards a healthier, happier you.

If you're ready to embark on this transformative journey with expert guidance, simply complete the New Client form and we will reach out to complete your free initial call. Wishing you a year filled with growth, resilience, and well-being.