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Here are some tried and true methods to help keep you on track:
Begin with Journaling
Photo by Hannah Olinger on UnsplashJournaling has many science-backed benefits. Amongst the best of them is that it can help reduce stress/anxiety and improve mental health. Through journaling you can put all of your thoughts, feelings, and ideas into writing, which makes soul-searching a little easier. Through journaling you can easily discover what’s making you happy and what is no longer serving you, making planning that much more simple and clear. In the words of Chilean author Isabel Allende, "You are the storyteller of your own life, and you can create your own legend, or not.”
Set Measurable Goals
Photo by engin akyurt on UnsplashWe encourage you to dream as big as you want, but in order to make these dreams come true, think about what the beginning steps are. Start small to make sure you’re not overwhelmed from the beginning. It will make sticking with it easier, even when the road gets a little bumpy. The evidence supporting the effectiveness and benefits of this approach is vast, so we know it works.
When you’re thinking about what these first steps are, think about how you can measure progress, for example, if your goal is to run a marathon, your measurable goal can be to start running 2 times per week to build endurance. Thinking about trying to tackle the entire 26.2 miles will feel overwhelming but if you focus on building towards the race a few miles at a time, all of a sudden it doesn’t feel so impossible.
Organize Your Year into Segments
Photo by Gaining Visuals on UnsplashWhether all you have is one big goal or you have a bunch of smaller ones, the best approach is to not try to do it all at once. Instead, try to divide your year into segments and divide the goals into each segment. If any goal is big enough that it’ll take the whole year or more than a year, divide it into the smaller steps you’ll take to accomplish it and assign them to different segments in the year.
The year can easily be divided into trimesters and, as mentioned before, keep writing everything down, so you can come back to it when needed. More importantly, learn how to face and manage your fears. As Elizabeth Colón, Latina entrepreneur and author, advises: "Don't let fear stop you from achieving what you want." Get organized, follow your plan, and keep your eye on the prize.
Celebrate Every Single Accomplishment
Photo by Vanessa Kintaudi on UnsplashBecause you deserve it! Make sure to give yourself the deserved credit for every little step that you’ve accomplished. At the end of the day, those accomplishments that seem small are what’s getting you closer to the finish line. Plus, it gives your brain a little dopamine hit and it reinforces the behavior that led to it. This will motivate you to repeat that behavior, ultimately keeping you pumped and on track.
As Latina TV host and entrepreneur Gladys De La Mora put it, "Making a difference is always possible, especially with persistence and dedication.” Recognizing your progress, no matter how small, is how you can acknowledge your efforts and cheer yourself on. Celebrating is especially important when an accomplishment was so challenging, it made you consider giving up, but you got through it anyway.
Have Fun with it and Don’t be too Hard on Yourself
Photo by Miguel Bruna on UnsplashRemember that what’s most important is how you’re feeling and if any goal becomes overwhelming, or changes into something you don’t want anymore, don’t be afraid to pause and come back to it later in life, or just ditch it altogether. This doesn’t mean you’re a quitter, on the contrary, it shows you aren’t afraid to put yourself first.
As we enter 2024, remember the words of iconic Mexican-American singer Selena Quintanilla: "If you have a dream, don't let anybody take it away, and always believe that the impossible is possible.” Approach your goals with optimism and determination, and may the year ahead be filled with the success you deserve and work toward.
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You’re Stuck in a “Why Even Bother?” Mentality
If you’ve caught yourself thinking, “What’s the point of even trying?” it’s time to take a closer look. This mindset often comes from past disappointments, but carrying it forward only guarantees more of the same. Flip the script by focusing on small wins. Every little success builds momentum and proves to yourself that effort does pay off.
You’re Still Holding onto Grudges
Photo by Sherise Van Dyk on UnsplashDragging old resentments into the New Year is like trying to sprint with ankle weights. It slows you down emotionally and mentally. Consider this: forgiveness isn’t about excusing someone else’s actions; it’s about freeing yourself from the burden. Reflect on what you’re holding onto and ask yourself if it’s really worth carrying into 2025.
You’re Clinging to Perfectionism
Photo by Jusdevoyage on UnsplashIf you’re entering the year with a mindset of “Everything has to be perfect or it’s not worth it,” you’re setting yourself up for stress and disappointment. Life is messy, and progress beats perfection every time. Start by setting goals that focus on effort rather than flawless outcomes. Progress is still progress, even if it’s not picture-perfect.
You’re Comparing Yourself to Everyone Else
Photo by Omar Lopez on UnsplashScrolling through social media and feeling like everyone else has it all figured out? That comparison trap is a surefire way to sabotage your mindset. Remember, people only post their highlight reels—not their struggles. Focus on your own journey and celebrate your unique wins. You’re not in competition with anyone but yourself.
You’re Overcommitting and Overloading
Photo by Microsoft 365 on UnsplashDo you feel like you’re already saying yes to too many things for 2025? Overcommitting leaves little room for what truly matters. Take a step back and evaluate your priorities. Ask yourself: What aligns with my goals and values? If it’s not a clear yes, it’s okay to say no.
You’re Dismissing Your Own Needs
Photo by bruce mars on UnsplashIf you’re always putting yourself last, 2025 could feel like just another year of burnout. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Schedule time for self-care, whether it’s a workout, journaling, or simply saying no to things that drain you. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
You’re Letting Fear of Failure Hold You Back
Photo by Miikka Luotio on UnsplashAre you avoiding new challenges because you’re scared of failing? That fear is a mindset roadblock. The truth is, failure is just another form of learning. Instead of asking, “What if I fail?” ask yourself, “What could I learn or gain from trying?” You know what they say–you miss 100% of the chances you don’t take.
You’re Focused on What You Can’t Control
Photo by Ryan Moreno on UnsplashIf your thoughts are dominated by everything you can’t change—world events, other people’s opinions, that one guy who cut you off in traffic—you’re giving away your power. Shift your energy to what you can control: your reactions, your choices, and your mindset. That’s where the magic happens.
You’re Relying on Motivation Alone
Photo by bruce mars on UnsplashIf you’re waiting for the “right” moment or a sudden burst of motivation to take action, you might be waiting forever. Motivation is great, but it’s fleeting. Build habits that keep you moving forward, even when you don’t feel like it. Discipline beats motivation every single time.
You’re Not Allowing Yourself to Dream Big
Photo by Caleb Fisher on UnsplashIf you’ve stopped setting ambitious goals because they feel too far out of reach, it’s time to rethink your mindset. Dreaming big doesn’t mean you’ll achieve everything overnight—it means you’re willing to believe in your potential. Break those big dreams into smaller, actionable steps and watch how quickly things start to happen.
The New Year doesn’t demand perfection, and neither should you. It’s about stepping in with a mindset that supports growth, resilience, and self-compassion. Reflect on these warning signs and ask yourself what small shifts you can make today. Remember, it’s not about becoming a “whole new you.” It’s about nurturing the person you already are and prime yourself for further growth.
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Set Realistic Expectations
Photo by Inés Castellano on UnsplashLet’s be real: not every family gathering is going to look like a Hallmark movie. And that’s okay! Accept that some conversations might get awkward, someone will probably burn a dish, and your uncle might still bring up politics. Remind yourself that perfection isn’t the goal—connection is.
Take Breaks When You Need Them
Photo by Flipsnack on UnsplashFamily gatherings can be overstimulating, especially if there’s a lot of noise or you’re around people for an extended time. It’s perfectly okay to step outside for fresh air, find a quiet room to decompress, or even take a short walk. Taking a breather doesn’t make you rude—it makes you human.
Practice Deep Breathing or Grounding Techniques
Photo by kevin turcios on UnsplashWhen anxiety starts creeping in, your breath can be your best friend. Try the 4-7-8 method: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Or use grounding techniques like naming five things you can see, four things you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. These simple practices can help bring you back to the present moment.
Know Your Triggers (and Have a Plan)
Photo by Rajiv Perera on UnsplashDoes your aunt always comment on your life choices? Does the chaos of kids running around overwhelm you? Identifying what triggers your anxiety beforehand can help you prepare. For instance, if certain topics stress you out, rehearse a polite way to change the subject or excuse yourself from the conversation.
Limit Alcohol and Caffeine
Photo by Zest Tea on UnsplashIt’s tempting to reach for that extra glass of wine or cup of coffee, but both can heighten anxiety. Alcohol might make you feel relaxed at first, but it can amplify feelings of stress later. Stick to water, herbal tea, or mocktails to keep your energy and emotions steady.
Set Boundaries (and Stick to Them)
Photo by Joel Muniz on UnsplashBoundaries are your holiday MVP. If you’re not up for answering personal questions, it’s okay to politely shut them down. A simple “I’d rather not talk about that, but tell me about your latest trip!” can work wonders. You don’t have to share or engage in anything that makes you uncomfortable.
Have an Exit Strategy
Photo by Andrew Neel on UnsplashIf the gathering feels too overwhelming, it’s okay to leave early or skip certain events altogether. Let the host know in advance if you might need to cut out early, and plan your departure so you feel in control. There’s no shame in protecting your peace.
Focus on What You Can Control
Photo by Caique Nascimento on UnsplashYou can’t control how others behave, but you can control how you respond. Focus on enjoying the parts of the gathering that bring you joy—like catching up with a favorite cousin, enjoying a slice of pie, or soaking in the festive atmosphere. Shifting your focus to what you love about the season can help ease anxiety.
Family gatherings might never be 100% stress-free, but they don’t have to drive you up the wall either. By setting boundaries, taking breaks, and prioritizing your mental health, you can navigate holiday get-togethers in a way that feels good for you. So, take a deep breath, and remind yourself: you’ve got this.
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