Ah, January. The month of fresh starts, ambitious resolutions, and… overwhelming stress? It’s no secret that the post-holiday season can be a bit of a rollercoaster. The excitement of the holidays fade, the pressure to achieve those lofty goals sets in, and suddenly, you’re facing the “New Year Beast” – a mix of societal expectations, post-holiday letdown, and fear of failure. But fear not, dear readers, for I, your friendly neighbourhood specialist wellness counsellor, am here to guide you through this frenzy and help you tame that beast once and for all.

Understanding the Beast

The “New Year Beast” is a complex creature. It feeds on the pressure to reinvent ourselves overnight, the unrealistic expectations we set, and the fear of not measuring up. It whispers doubts in our ears, telling us we’re not good enough, not disciplined enough, not… enough. But here’s the truth: you are enough. And you don’t have to face this beast alone.

Taming the Beast: A Self-Help Guide

1. Acknowledge the Beast: The first step to taming any beast is acknowledging its existence. Recognise that it’s normal to feel overwhelmed or stressed in January. Don’t beat yourself up for not being perfect. Instead, be kind to yourself and accept that you’re doing your best.

2. Reframing Resolutions: Instead of setting rigid resolutions, try setting intentions. Intentions are more flexible and allow for adjustments along the way. For example, instead of resolving to “lose 20 kilograms,” you could set an intention to “prioritise my health and well-being.”

3. Break It Down: Large goals can be daunting. Break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make them seem less overwhelming and more achievable. For instance, if your goal is to “write a book,” start by writing one page daily.

4. Practice Self-Care: Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This could be anything from taking a relaxing bath to going for a walk in nature. These can help ground you as well as throw aside some of that stress you may be holding onto.

5. Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk to a friend, family member, or a mental health specialist. Sharing your struggles can lighten your load and provide you with valuable support.

Activities to Tame the Beast

– Mindfulness Meditation: Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and observe your thoughts without judgment. This can help calm your mind and reduce stress.

– Gratitude Journaling: Write down a few things you’re grateful for each day. This can help shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s right in your life.

– Nature Walk: Spend some time in nature. This can help you feel more grounded and connected to the world around you.

– Creative Expression: Engage in activities that allow you to express yourself creatively, such as painting, writing, or playing music.

Remember, You’re Not Alone

The “First Month Frenzy” is a shared experience. Many people feel overwhelmed and stressed in January. But with a little self-awareness, self-compassion, and the right tools, you can tame the “New Year Beast” and start the year off on a positive note.

Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for any health concerns you may have.

The Author: Robert Ellison (Specialist Wellness Counsellor)

More about Robert Ellison: https://www.vitanova.co.za/meet-the-team/robert-ellison-specialist-wellness-counsellor/

To schedule a session with the author or any of our counsellors at Vita Nova, please contact us on 0712979992, or go to www.vitanova.co.za. We offer a range of counselling services and have interns that can provide you with assistance for free if you are not in a position to afford therapy.

For 24 hr assistance on mental health matters contact SADAG on 0800 567 567

Help is always available.