New Year’s Resolutions: Reflecting on Becoming a Better and More Meaningful Individual
Author: Indri Savitri, M.Psi, Psikolog, Psikoterapis (Academic Coordinator, Inspirasi Schools)
The beginning of the year is an important moment to set resolutions.
According to the Cambridge online dictionary, resolution means “a promise to yourself to do or not do something.” In the context of the new year, resolutions are reflective activities aimed at planning self-improvement. The start of the year is a perfect time for individuals to begin anew with fresh enthusiasm. Resolutions can be made in various areas:
- Personal area
- Professional area (work)
- Family area (related to family roles)
Personal resolutions focus on individual development and well-being, often targeting health, self-growth, mental and emotional well-being, social relationships, and financial management. Professional resolutions are connected to career development, mastery of specific skills, and increased productivity. Meanwhile, family resolutions aim to enhance familial roles, strengthen relationships, and maintain harmony within the family.
Setting resolutions should align with life goals and core values. Effective resolutions should begin with small, gradual improvements, feature a step-by-step approach, and be realistic enough to inspire motivation. Resolutions should also adhere to the SMART principle: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. In simpler terms, SMART resolutions focus on specific, measurable, achievable behaviours aligned with long-term goals and clearly defined timeframes.
For example, a well-crafted resolution to improve social bonding within the family, particularly for a busy parent who feels disconnected from their child, could be:
“Over the next 6 months, I will spend 30 minutes three times a week reading stories, storytelling, playing, or having heartfelt conversations with my child.”
This statement follows the SMART principle:
- Specific: Spending time reading, storytelling, or talking with the child.
- Measurable: 30 minutes, three times a week.
- Attainable: A simple, realistic activity.
- Relevant: Strengthens parent-child bonding and develops the child’s social-emotional aspects.
- Time-bound: Conducted over 6 months with regular evaluations.
In conclusion, resolutions are actions aimed at improvement, requiring consistency and commitment to achieve meaningful changes in various roles, such as parenting, self-development, or other specific goals.
Inspirasi Schools encourages everyone to embrace resolutions that bring positive transformation in 2025. Share your meaningful resolutions in the comments below! Happy New Year 2025!