The new year has arrived, and with it comes a wave of resolutions. Losing weight, quitting smoking, being more faithful, and increasing financial stability often top the list. But why is it so difficult to keep your word to yourself?
This year I you to shift your focus. Instead of forcing drastic changes, consider mastering self-improvement and understanding the powerful relationship between your conscious and subconscious mind.
The Struggle with Resolutions: Why Do We Fail?
Every year, millions set ambitious resolutions only to abandon them weeks later. The pattern seems universal, but why?
The truth lies in the complex dance between the conscious and subconscious mind. While the conscious mind sets goals, the subconscious mind resists change, clinging to comfort and familiarity. This internal conflict often results in self-sabotage, making personal growth feel impossible.
Understanding the Conscious and Subconscious Mind
I emphasize self-awareness as the key to lasting change. To break free from old habits, you must first understand the roles of your conscious and subconscious mind.
- Conscious Mind: Deliberate, slow, rational decision-making center
- Subconscious Mind: Automatic, emotional, habit-driven, and protective
When you make a resolution, the conscious mind sets the goal, but the subconscious mind may resist, as it perceives change as a threat.
How the Subconscious Mind Influences Your Actions
Melina Palmer, in What Your Customer Wants and Can’t Tell You, describes the subconscious mind as a protective gatekeeper. Its job is to preserve the status quo, making quick decisions based on past experiences.
This protective mechanism often blocks personal growth. Imagine resolving to wake up at 5 a.m. for the gym. Your subconscious, seeking comfort, convinces you to stay in bed. Without awareness, it can override your conscious intentions.
Developing Mindfulness: The Key to Self-Mastery
Mindfulness bridges the gap between the conscious and subconscious mind. By staying present, you train yourself to observe your thoughts without judgment, making it easier to identify self-sabotaging patterns.
I recommend starting with simple mindfulness practices:
- Morning self-acknowledgment
- Guided meditation (using apps like Insight Timer and Calm)
- Gratitude journaling
- Breathing exercises
Embrace Self-Compassion in 2025
Instead of harsh resolutions, I encourage a self-compassionate approach. Begin your day with self-kindness:
- Acknowledge Your Value: Celebrate your unique strengths.
- Practice Self-Hugging: Cross your arms and give yourself a hug.
- Embrace Gratitude: Thank yourself for showing up every day.
This mindset shift fosters emotional resilience, making it easier to stay committed to personal growth.
Why You Need to Master Self-Awareness
True personal growth requires understanding yourself at a deep level. I teach that self-awareness allows you to:
- Identify triggers and habits
- Recognize self-limiting beliefs
- Develop emotional intelligence
- Make conscious decisions aligned with your values
How to Stay Consistent with Your Resolutions
Consistency is the foundation of success. Here are my top strategies for maintaining resolutions:
- Set Clear Intentions: Focus on small, achievable goals.
- Track Progress: Keep a success journal.
- Practice Visualization: Imagine yourself achieving your goals.
- Accountability Partnerships: Join a coaching program for support.
Join My Mindfulness Course in 2025
Start your year with guidance! I will be co-facilitating a Mindfulness Course with Reverend Laura Hallett at the Center for Spiritual Living in Greater Las Vegas. The course is based on Mindfulness for Beginners by Jon Kabat-Zinn.
This program offers a structured approach to mindfulness, equipping you with tools for lifelong success.
Transform Your Life with Karyn Dunphy Coaching
Mastering self-improvement isn’t about drastic changes—it’s about understanding yourself better. With my help, you can develop mindfulness, self-compassion, and a deeper connection to your goals.
Make 2025 the year you stay true to yourself. Join a coaching program, practice mindfulness, and watch your life transform.
Namaste,
Coach Karyn Dunphy
