New Year’s Goals to Empower Your Mental Wellness Journey

With the arrival of a new year, many of us take the opportunity to set fresh goals and envision a path toward improved well-being. At Uprise Health, we believe that setting meaningful and achievable New Year’s goals can play a significant role in enhancing your mental health and overall wellness. Whether you’re accessing an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), exploring employee wellness programs, or starting from scratch, these tips can help you create a positive and productive start to the year.

6 Tips to Consider when Goal-Setting

1. Reflect on the Past Year

Before setting new goals, take a moment to reflect on the past year. Consider the accomplishments you’re proud of and the areas where you faced challenges. Understanding what worked and what didn’t can provide valuable insights as you plan for the future. This reflection can guide you in setting realistic and relevant goals that align with your personal growth and wellness journey.

2. Set SMART Goals

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework helps to create clear and realistic objectives that you can track and achieve. For instance, instead of setting a vague goal like “improve my mental health,” a SMART goal would be “practice mindfulness meditation for 10 minutes every day for the next three months.” This goal follows the SMART method, making it easier to stay focused and motivated.

3. Prioritize Self-Care

Incorporating self-care into your goals is essential for maintaining mental wellness. Consider setting goals that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and self-compassion. Some examples are:

• Schedule regular breaks: Set a timer to remind yourself to take a short break every hour to stretch or take a walk.
• Engage in hobbies: Dedicate time each week to activities that bring you joy, such as reading, painting, or gardening.
• Practice yoga: Incorporate a weekly yoga session to help reduce stress and improve flexibility.
• Mindfulness exercises: Spend a few minutes each day practicing mindfulness or deep breathing exercises to center your thoughts.

4. Seek Support When Needed

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support if needed. Uprise Health provides resources through our EAP and employee wellness programs to assist you. Speaking with a counselor, joining a support group, or using digital mental health tools can offer the guidance and encouragement necessary to stay on track. Additionally, don’t forget the power of your personal network. Reaching out to friends and family can provide emotional support and understanding. Joining community groups or engaging in social activities can also help you feel connected and supported.

5. Stay Flexible and Adapt

Life can be unpredictable, and it’s essential to stay flexible and adapt your goals as needed. If you encounter obstacles or changes in your circumstances, reassess your goals and adjust them accordingly. Being adaptable allows you to navigate challenges with resilience and continue progressing toward your overall objectives.

6. Celebrate Your Progress

Take time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Recognizing and celebrating progress can boost your motivation and reinforce positive behaviors. Whether it’s treating yourself to something special or simply acknowledging your efforts, celebrating milestones can make your journey more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Finding Resources Within Uprise Health EAP

At Uprise Health, we provide resources to help with your New Year’s goals:

• Counseling Services: Get personalized guidance from professional counselors.
• Support Groups: Connect with others who have similar goals and challenges.
• Digital Mental Health Tools: Use online resources like articles, videos, and exercises for mental well-being with the Uprise Health app.
• Self-Guided Courses and Webinars: Learn about stress management, mindfulness, and goal setting through educational sessions.
• Work-Life Services: Access a comprehensive library of resources for balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

For current Uprise Health members, be sure to visit the Member Portal for more information and resources. If you aren’t partnered with Uprise Health for EAP services, request a demo today to learn more about how we can enhance your employee wellness programs.

As you embark on your journey towards achieving your New Year’s goals, remember that setting clear and attainable objectives is key. The six tips we covered—defining specific goals, breaking them into manageable steps, tracking your progress, staying flexible, seeking support, and celebrating achievements—are designed to support you every step of the way. At Uprise Health, we are committed to providing the resources and guidance you need to succeed. Whether through our counseling services, digital tools, or work-life services, we are here to help you rise above and reach your full potential. Let’s make this year a transformative and fulfilling one!