Happy New Year by Sharon Ashman

It's time to overhaul your life, but the truth is simple and deeply reassuring. Real change
rarely comes from massive resolutions. It comes from small, consistent behaviours that
support your wellbeing.

Why big resolutions fail
Most New Year resolutions rely on motivation alone. Motivation is unstable; it surges when
we feel inspired, then drops when life becomes busy, stressful, or unpredictable. When
motivation fades, people often blame themselves rather than the unrealistic expectations
they set.

Large goals also trigger executive-function overload. When the brain feels overwhelmed, it
shuts down, procrastinates, or abandons the task entirely.

The psychology of change
Behavioural science consistently shows that people stick to habits that are small, easy,
rewarding, and connected to existing routines.

This is known as habit stacking. For example, after I make my morning coffee. I take three
slow breaths. After I brushing my teeth I write down one intention for the day. These micro-
habits bypass overwhelm and create momentum.

Self-compassion makes change stick. Self-criticism shuts down growth.
If you miss a day, the goal is not to “start again on Monday. The goal is simply to return
gently to the habit the next day.

Try the following quick reset:

1. Choose one area: sleep, movement, stress, or routines.
2. Set a tiny habit: two minutes or less.
3. Pair it with an existing behaviour (e.g., bed, meals, commute).
4. Reward yourself: acknowledge the effort, not the outcome.

“If you’d like more support, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give
me a call 0418708214.” NDIS FRIENDLY

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