Evolutions Not Resolutions: 9 Ways to Evolve in the New Year

This New Year’s, consider these 9 self-care practices and resolution alternatives.

In the words of Louise Hay, “Loving the self, to me, begins with never ever criticizing ourselves for anything. Criticism locks us into the very pattern we are trying to change. Understanding and being gentle with ourselves helps us to move out of it. Remember, you have been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.”

This is why we defeat ourselves when we make resolutions with harshness and a feeling that we are not already enough.

Instead, let’s start with self-love, and let every new leaf we turn over be a way of expressing that love.

Here are 9 ideas for how you can do just that.

1. Evolve into Being Toxicity-Free

You know it when a relationship doesn’t feel right. In the New Year, honor that knowing by refusing to maintain toxic relationships out of guilt, fear, habit, or obligation. Yes, this might be a challenge. But it will be worth it.

 Doing a clearing and shielding meditation every day can help. So can this meditation to cut energetic cords between you and another person, habit, or situation.

2. Evolve into Being Sexually Empowered

Most of us have experienced some kind of wounding or shaming around our sexuality at some point in the past. Exploring those wounds and taking measures to heal them is a beautiful self-care practice that reaps incredible rewards, including increased energy, creativity, vitality, joy, and personal power.

If you (like me) have been sexually abused in any way, The Courage to Heal and The Courage to Heal Workbook are great places to start.

3. Evolve into Letting Go of Guilt

Of course, it’s natural for humans like us to feel guilt and shame occasionally. But when you’re constantly feeling guilty for things that are not your fault or are out of your control, you give away your power. And for what? It’s not like it’s helping anyone else, either.

In 2019, surrender the need to be everything to everyone and let go of the belief that you should be more or different than who you are. Who you are is plenty.

(If you don’t believe me, here are 5 Simple Ways to Improve Your Self-Esteem.)

4. Evolve into Being Blunt

In the New Age/self-help world, we hear the words “speak your truth” a lot. But let’s take it a step further in the New Year: Let’s be blunt. Of course, I’m not suggesting that we be rude, exactly. I’m suggesting that we should say what’s true for us, without apology, and without trying to make sure everyone likes us all the time. Not everyone will like us. Which is fine.

5. Evolve into Exercising in Style

Here is a fun twist on the classic exercise resolution: assemble a workout wardrobe you love. Take the time to find the gym clothes you feel great in and that compliment you in every way. Then, see if those fabulous gym clothes don’t tempt you into exercising.

…It’s so much more fun that way, right?

6. Evolve into Having Radiant Skin

When your skin is truly glowing, it’s not just about your skin: it’s about feeling and looking healthy from the inside out. Take care of your skin with store-bought products if you prefer, but it can be wonderfully magical to make your own, or just to use single-ingredient products like coconut oil as a moisturizer or coffee grounds as an exfoliant.

Other things that contribute to radiant skin: lots of water, fresh or dried fruit, vegetables, healthy dietary fats like olive and avocado oil, probiotics, enzymes, epsom salt and lavender baths, laughter, and rooibos tea.

Also check out my 20 Best Magical and Holistic Beauty Tips.

7. Evolve into Loving Your Hair

My friend Jennifer Joy says that when she needs an energetic shift, a haircut is critical. I’ve certainly had the experience of changing my hair and seeing myself and my life in a whole new light. Somehow, for so many of us, our hair and our self-image are psychologically intertwined. Honor this connection this year by letting go of negative hair-talk and finding a hairstyle you love.

8. Evolve into Sleeping Deeply

While classic New Year’s resolutions generally involve doing more, doing absolutely nothing but sleep almost certainly provides greater benefits. In the fascinating and illuminating book Why We Sleep, sleep researcher Dr. Matthew Walker makes a convincing case that sleeping better and longer will make you smarter, thinner, happier, more creative, and more successful.

So make sure your bedroom is restful and your bed is comfortable. Consider taking the caffeine down a notch. And keep one of these crystals nearby while you sleep.

9. Evolve into Celebrating Food

Why adopt a punishing or restrictive relationship with food when you can resolve to celebrate it instead?

This year, choose to have fun with finding and preparing healthy and delicious meals. For example, this pecan loaf from The Vegan Slow Cooker cookbook or these amazing chickpea burritos from Thug Kitchen. (So good!)

Also check out these 3 Rituals to Help Heal Your Relationship with Food.

Start with loving yourself, then evolve. And watch your year blossom.

Are you going to try any of these ideas? Or do you have one of your own to share? Please chime in with a comment below.