Here it comes… drumroll, please—the calendar is about to flip to February. Whew. What a January this has been!
This is for all of you who have been working hard to make changes and are wondering, what’s next? If that’s not you—if you’re not interested in learning from the challenges you’ve faced—feel free to keep scrolling. Seriously.
I want to talk to those who are really making an effort. To those who are finding the process of change tougher than expected. Or maybe, surprisingly, easier than they thought—if that’s you, fantastic! I’m happy for you.
You’ve heard me say it before: change isn’t as easy as people make it sound. Did you know that getting consumers to switch toothpaste brands is incredibly difficult? Actually, getting people to switch any product is tough. As humans, we naturally stick with what’s familiar. Now, imagine how that applies to the deeply ingrained habits and personal goals we set for ourselves. Want to hear someone else say it? You could listen to this podcast from Hidden Brain to get more validation.
Yes, the shift from January to February isn’t a new topic but then again, is there really such a thing as a new topic? For a bit of time travel you can check out this post from a few years ago; it will sound familiar.
Take a Step Back: What Worked?
Before you move forward, reflect on what’s been effective so far. Even small wins matter because they help us shape our next goals. Ask yourself:
- Where did you feel, even for a moment, the gears clicking into place? When did you think, Oh, now I see…?
- Did you notice any helpful patterns? Maybe working out before lunch helped you stay focused in the afternoon. Or planning a Saturday morning activity made staying up late on Friday night less tempting.
- Did you see any short-term gains from your efforts?
Now, Be Honest: What Didn’t Work?
For a balanced perspective, consider the opposite:
- Did certain habits hold you back? Maybe staying out late a few nights a week made it harder to reach your goal.
- Did you rationalize behaviors you promised yourself you’d avoid? (“This is a special occasion, so it’s okay to… And yes, I know the new episode of Squid Game isn’t exactly a special occasion, but…”) We are masters at rationalizing!
- Did a well-intended decision have unintended consequences? That meal subscription box may have stocked you with healthy options—but was the extra expense worth it?
Progress Isn’t a Straight Line
No one changes in a straight, predictable path. That only happens in movies and our imaginations. In real life, we start, stumble, try again, question if it’s even worth it, and then try again. The key? Keep practicing. Keep going. What’s next is entirely up to you.
Beware of Unsustainable Change
Let’s be clear about what doesn’t work. Extreme, all-consuming efforts—like trying to lose 30 pounds in a month, saving 95% of your paycheck (with no financial backup), or launching a full-time business while working a full-time job—aren’t sustainable. And they come at a huge personal cost.
There’s no such thing as true overnight success. Real change takes time. Redesigning your life takes time. Practicing new habits takes time.
Yes, I may sound like a broken record. But do you know why? Because you never know when the pieces will finally click into place and change will stick. Maybe this January was your turning point. Or maybe it was just the beginning of learning more about what works for you—and what doesn’t. Our goals change and shift as we grow.
However this month turned out for you, I hope you learned something. Even the smallest insight—a single puzzle piece—can be the key to lasting change.
So keep going. Just keep going. It will come together with time, practice, and patience.
Looking for some extra help or accountability? Find yourself facing a roadblock you hadn’t seen coming? I’m here when you’re ready.
