Are You Starting the New Year With A Sprinkle of Anxiety?

It’s that time again. Fireworks are over and a brand new year has begun. While some people are hopeful and excited to create a list of New Year resolutions, some could not help but feel that existential crisis is slowly creeping in. Is this normal?

It actually occurs quite often, but not talked about enough openly. New year is a time that people generally boost their optimism for positive changes, but some are reminded that they are heading into the new year with bouts of worries and confusion about where they are at in life.

You’re probably silently comparing yourself to your peers; judging whether you’re in the right path or falling behind. As you see those around you relocating for their new jobs, entering into relationships, getting married, starting a family, buying their first homes, getting promoted at work, establishing their startup business, the thought of not accomplishing any of the goals you set for the previous year magnifies. The feeling of having to dive into new territories this year adds a little more pressure. The reality of turning another year older might bring a bit of despair, thinking that you’re running out time. And this list goes on…

It’s fairly unspoken of, but you’re one of the the billions of people navigating the next steps in life while thinking everyone with their list of New Years resolutions have it at least half figured out. The bigger question is are you supposed to have everything figured out?

Below are some reminders and points to reflect on as you find yourself feeling lost or increasingly anxious heading into this new year:

1.) You are not running out of time because time limits are set by no one but you.

2.) Be flexible with timelines. Your goals don’t stop just because you passed or missed the ideal “deadline.”

3.) You’re not exactly stuck with an undesirable decision. You’re not born with the 6th sense, so you can’t really foresee and control the future. If you find yourself unsatisfied with an outcome, you have the choice to pivot.

4.) Everyone’s priorities, opportunities, and pace in life differ. What may look like the peak of success among your peers may not fit your current timeline.

5.) Everyone defines success differently. Explore your own definition.

6.) Think of the significance of achieving the things you want. Is this truly what you want or FOMO (fear of missing out)?

7.) Does comparing yourself to others motivate you for self improvement or make you self critical or jealous?

8.) It’s ok to feel a little lost and confused along the way. Be patient to continue to explore.

9.) Your self worth is not defined by how many goals you accomplished or how far ahead you are of others.

While many of the above points are easier read than done, they pave way for you to evaluate your own expectations and standards. If possible, find someone you trust to talk about these feelings, whether it’s your friend, family, mentor, or therapist. Chances are you’ll realize that not everyone is heading into the new year with crystal clear directions.

There’s a saying that life is a movie. There will be good moments, unpleasant times, and some parts that you just can’t quite understand. There isn’t only one right way to live it. No matter if you have zero or twenty New Year resolutions, 2024 is not rigidly scripted. With that said, let’s start this year with this in mind: fill in the unscripted parts with your own narrative.