Health and wellbeing at RWS

The new year often symbolizes a fresh start, a moment in time when we reflect on the past and set our sights on the future. Making one intentional change can be incredibly impactful, leading to personal growth, a sense of accomplishment, and an enhanced quality of life. Rather than attempting to overhaul everything all at once, focusing on just one change can create a positive ripple effect, resulting in lasting transformation. 

One of the most significant benefits of making a single change is the opportunity to cultivate consistency. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the long list of goals many set for themselves at the beginning of the year. However, committing to one specific goal makes it easier to stay focused and track progress. By narrowing your attention, you reduce the risk of burnout, a common reason why New Year's resolutions fail. 

Additionally, making one change helps you build self-discipline. When you make the decision to improve one aspect of your life – whether it's taking up a new hobby, adopting healthier eating habits e.g. eat one apple a day, or practising mindfulness – you actively engage your willpower. Each small success reinforces the habit, making it easier to stay on track. You may even notice that the positive impact of this single change spills over into other areas of your life, creating a sense of overall balance and wellbeing. 

Psychologically, focusing on one change at a time allows you to be more mindful of the present moment. Rather than juggling multiple competing goals, you give yourself the mental space to appreciate the progress you're making. This sense of mindfulness can reduce stress and increase your overall sense of happiness. By focusing on one goal, you can also embrace the journey itself – learning and growing as you work toward your desired outcome. 

In the same vein, making a single change gives you the opportunity to focus on the ‘why’ behind your decision. When we attempt to change too much at once, we often lose sight of why we want to make those changes. For instance, if your goal is to spend more time with family, reflecting on the importance of relationships can fuel your commitment to this change. Understanding the deeper purpose behind your goal can offer both direction and motivation during moments of difficulty. 

Another advantage of focusing on one change is the increased likelihood of success. Our brains can only manage so many new tasks or habits at a time. By choosing just one, you can concentrate your energy and resources effectively. And once this change becomes ingrained in your routine, you can set your sights on another goal, building on your momentum. 

Making one change in your life for the new year can have profound, positive effects. It allows you to focus your energy, develop consistency, build self-discipline, and approach your goal with clarity. By concentrating on just one change, you set yourself up for success, leading to lasting improvements in your life and wellbeing.