Sure, as South African’s it’s part and parcel of who we are. We work hard and play hard; pushing ourselves to be more and achieve more with each new calendar year. More, more, more …

But what if you’re already spreading yourself too thin as we welcome the pandemic’s “junior year” (to adopt the darkly comic term that went viral on Twitter). It looks like 2022 is destined to be the third year in a row that will be marked by fear and confusion. And, if you’ve taken on more than you can chew in 2021 and it’s backfired with a fiery explosion of stress – you’re the rule, not the exception.

Kudos if you’ve been the perpetual helper, but if you’re feeling constantly anxious, harboring resentment, and feeling snappy towards the people you love the most; chances are that you’re spreading yourself too thin.

So, here’s a radical thought: What if who you are is already enough? What if “New Year, New Me” could be replaced with “I am enough.” What if we could replace perfectionism and the fear of being judged with being proud of what we’ve accomplished in 2021? Not particularly catchy, true, but what if this way of thinking could take the pressure off?

It’s time to reject the New Year hustle culture and to explore changes to build a more meaningful life. Let’s opt out of frantic living and reframe the way we think about everything. Prioritize you. Doing what feels good is textbook R&R; don’t deny yourself of that. Make going to the gym or packing a healthy lunch as important as getting to work on time.

Focus on healthy patterns by making a restful night’s sleep and healthful living a must. And, if you cannot chisel out that much “me time,” set 15-minute intervals aside to simply breathe. Focus on what you have, not on what you lack. Give one goal that will make a difference in your life all your energy, instead of spreading yourself too thin.

It’s a matter of perspective. If you’ve ever made pizza dough, you’ll know that when you’re rolling out, if you spread it too thin, it will tear and the more you try to patch it, the smaller the chances become that it will stick.

Under normal circumstances we would naturally have this rolling agenda for ourselves as the New Year comes along but cancelled plans, classes and weddings profoundly altered everything. Even if Covid-19 disappeared and all our pandemic problems cleared up today, the hardship we’ve already endured will have a knock-on effect for decades to come. And, sadly, going forward researchers expect to see more recurring mental illness, substance abuse as well as physical health consequences.

So be kinder, gentler, to yourself and to others during 2022. May you find success and happiness.

Here’s to wishing you and your loved ones a happy and healthy New Year!

Source: vox.com, goop.com, ndtv.com, drinkbai.com, heatherbranhamlcsw.com, auburnpub.com, medium.com, blinkest.com, amazon.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.