As the new year begins, many individuals find themselves struggling to shake off the post-holiday lethargy. According to Tara Green, a Mental Health Support and Psychosocial Recovery Coach based in Armidale, it is common to feel unmotivated during this transitional period. Green emphasizes that whether one is returning to work or still reminiscing about holiday festivities, this time can be challenging for many.
To regain motivation, Green suggests breaking down ambitious goals into manageable steps. She notes, “What are the small steps that we need to change every single day to get to those bigger goals we set ourselves?” This approach addresses the tendency to set overwhelming New Year’s resolutions, which can lead to burnout.
Instead of aiming for drastic changes, Green recommends starting with achievable tasks. “Rather than suddenly deciding to go to the gym every day for an hour, for example, start with something smaller and ease into it,” she explains. This gradual approach not only enhances enjoyment but also reduces the risk of exhaustion.
Focusing on simple daily habits, such as ensuring sufficient water intake or taking daily vitamins, can create a foundation for achieving larger objectives. Green insists that by mastering these smaller tasks, individuals will notice a quicker progression towards their ultimate goals.
With nearly six years of experience in the Armidale and New England districts, Green has a background in business and transformational coaching. Originally from the USA, she relocated to Australia in 2012 and has since developed a passion for mental health and support work. “It truly is the best job in the world,” she states, highlighting her commitment to assisting individuals in creating positive routines and environments.
Green also emphasizes the importance of community and family support in achieving personal goals. She shares how her family discusses their individual aspirations for the year ahead. “In my own family, we discuss with our kids what their goals look like, our household goals and our family goals,” she says. Engaging in these conversations fosters a supportive environment where everyone can work together as a team, making it easier to identify and implement those small steps necessary for success.
As the year progresses, individuals feeling the post-holiday blues may find that by setting realistic goals and seeking support from family and friends, they can effectively reignite their motivation and enhance their well-being.