Elle, the creator behind TikTok account @master_your__mind, says that there is a crucial step people are missing when piecing together their New Year’s resolutions
A brain expert has dished out a crucial tip for those setting New Year’s resolutions, revealing the “short term” strategy that could make all the difference.
Elle, who runs the TikTok account @master_your__mind, dropped some knowledge bombs on her followers, explaining why many people falter with their New Year’s commitments.
She pointed out that our brains aren’t exactly on board with “long-term change,” but rather hooked on instant gratification. Elle advised: “People often give up on New Year’s resolutions because your brain actually isn’t wired for long-term change – it’s wired for immediate rewards. Resolutions fail when they rely on willpower, a short-term source of energy, instead of aligning with how habits are naturally formed in the brain.”
The brain expert suggests starting small, linking new habits to existing ones, and rewarding yourself right away to leverage your brain’s love for rewards, thus making your resolutions stick.
The MentalHealth website echoes this sentiment, recommending keeping resolutions short and sweet for a healthier start to the year.
Their website advises: “Remember that even if we forget to stick to our planned resolution, it’s OK to forgive yourself and carry on. Life is complex and everybody has innumerable stressors and responsibilities, so it’s OK to forget or feel disheartened occasionally.”
They add: “Ultimately, remember that New Year’s resolutions should be about positivity, making beneficial changes for not only our physical health but also our mental health. We cannot practice good mental health with shame and ridicule. Self-compassion, positive changes, and patience will be key to achieving our wellbeing goals no matter when we make them.”
