Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
As we step into a brand-new year, I want to pause and ask: What did last year teach you about yourself? Too often, we rush into resolutions without taking time to reflect. But reflection gives us clarity, and clarity fuels growth.
Think back for a moment. What went well last year? What challenges taught you something valuable? And where did you surprise yourself? Writing these down or simply sitting with them can remind us of the progress we’ve already made.
Next, practice letting go. Just like you wouldn’t stuff new clothes into a cluttered closet, don’t drag old habits and mindsets that no longer serve you into the new year. Release what drains you, so there’s room for what matters most.
Instead of rigid resolutions, I like to focus on mindset shifts. For example, trade “I need to lose weight” for “I want more energy to enjoy life.” Small mindset changes create lasting growth.
Here are a few tools to shape your new year mindset: practice daily gratitude, see setbacks as lessons, and build identity-based habits like “I’m the kind of person who moves every day.” You might even choose a “word of the year” — something like courage, balance, or growth.
This week: reflect on one lesson from last year and one mindset you want to carry forward. The new year isn’t about becoming someone else — it’s about becoming the best version of yourself.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. This has been Kristin Bogdonas, nutrition and wellness educator for University of Illinois Extension.
A New Year Mindset
