“Stress and anxiety often come from too much expectation and too much ambition,” the Dalai Lama said….”Right from the very beginning, it is a self-centered attitude…When we have a clear picture about our own capacity, we can be realistic about our effort. Then there is a much greater chance of achieving our goals. But unrealistic effort only brings disaster. So in many cases our stress is caused by our expectations and our ambition.” The Book of Joy

Happy New Year! Happy resolution keeping? I share the above quote for many reasons. I think it’s rich and layered wisdom. One that you can read from time to time and obtain different interpretations. The easy part of the annual January resolution “epidemic” is setting the goal. Declaring to lose 30 pounds, well, that’s stated in 20 seconds. A statement with so little preparation is absolutely going to cause stress and anxiety.

Why continue to set yourself up for failure and frustration? I suggest spending time each day through January answering the “How?” and “Why?” behind your resolution. That still gives you 11 months to work toward achieving your goal while being realistic. Set yourself up for success, show self-compassion when you slip, and have an amazing 2017!