People are being encouraging to “set realistic New Year’s resolutions” to avoid disappointment, and to consider starting something new instead of giving something up.
National mental health charity, Turn2Me said that it’s easier to make consistent small sacrifices than drastic changes. Turn2Me stated that people find it more difficult to make new friends as they get older, which can lead to loneliness later in life, but that starting new projects, joining new clubs or signing up to new courses can lead to new friendships.
“People often associate New Year’s with resolutions, such as weight loss or going on an extreme detox,” Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said. “Instead of setting lots of unrealistic New Year’s resolutions, which often lead to disappointment if they can’t be maintained, setting a smaller number of realistic goals can be more achievable.
“For example, if you rarely exercise and your New Year’s resolution is to go to for a run every day, this might not be realistic. It may also result in injury if you push yourself too far, and can lead to longer periods out of action. It might be better to jog twice or three times a week. Goals that aren’t realistic can lead to feelings of disappointment and failure. This feeling of failure can deter people from setting future goals.
“Consider joining a part-time course, signing up for a writing or hiking group, or joining a choir, book club or a drama society. New Year’s is a good time for new beginnings. It doesn’t have to mean extreme diets or complete lifestyle changes. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Embrace setbacks and aim for progress, not perfection!”
Turn2Me is running free support groups on anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues for anyone struggling with their mental health in 2025. Turn2Me also offers up to six free one-to-one counselling sessions, a free meditation programme, free helpful articles on mental health and a free ‘Thought Catcher’ mood diary.
To sign up for any of these free mental health services, go to Turn2Me.ie
