If you’re someone who’s been around for some time on mother earth, the thing you will be doing right now right after deciding where to spend your new year will most likely be setting the new year’s resolution.

In a world that makes you feel worthy only when you are productive, you should stop yourself for a minute and think again. And gladly, we are here to help you. Here are 5 things to keep in mind when setting up your new year’s resolution.

1- Stop using the word goals.

Don’t use the word goal when you have something in mind you want to attain in life, whether it’s a new phone you want to buy, a career upgrade, or simply being a kinder human being. It’s not a goal; it’s an intention. For example, I intend to buy a new phone; I plan to be kinder, your life doesn’t depend on it, and it will not make you a less human being if you don’t achieve it.

2- Baby steps are everything. 

Going big is great but tell me exactly how you will achieve their intentions? Exactly, break it down. Baby steps make the process; baby steps make the achievement, not the other way around. So remember always to add mini intentions under the big scary one.

3- A new year is not new you.

5,4,3,2,1. What the f? I am still the same anxious old me, and I am older now. Surprise, fellow reader, adding 2 to the 2 doesn’t change anytime, but the date. So if you want to change, you actually like to work for it. No lists can change you. Unfortunately, I would have been the Egyptian Bill Gates by now if this was the scenario. Self-honesty, commitment, and time baby. Take it from Bill Gates.

4- One thing checked off the list is still WOW

Hamada Helal syndrome alert: a new year’s resolution is for the whole year, not just Jan. So if by next December, there’s only one thing checked off the list Congratufuckinglations, you should be proud of yourself, buddy, and trust me by following the above techniques there will be more than one thing checked off.

5- No achievement is a small achievement. 

If all you want to do this year is to get to know yourself better, then that’s what you have to do, and you should feel confident in your decision. Maybe even contact me to go through the process together. Of course, it’s kind of kidding, but trust me when I tell you that only you have the power to decide what you want to do, and it doesn’t matter if your goal is not a materialistic one because any other level is still as important if not more. Just be honest with what you want to avoid disappointment. 

So with that said, I want to remind you not to overdo yourself and always be proud of every little thing you make. Of course, it’s easier said than done. I know but be your Mona Elshazly, and cheers to a happy, blissful, peaceful new year.