As the year comes to a close, many of us reflect on what’s passed and hope the new year brings fresh opportunities. We’re also surrounded by messages about New Year’s resolutions and becoming a “new you”—setting goals, buying new journals, and promising change.

We plan to eat better, manage stress, or attend therapy.

But by February, that excitement often fades. Research shows that about 80% of New Year's resolutions fail by the second month. This does not mean you are weak; it is simply part of human nature.

If you’ve broken a promise to yourself, you’re not alone. Change is possible, but first, understand why it’s so hard.

Below, we’ll look at three common psychological barriers that block change and three clear steps to overcome them.

Trauma is not just something that happened long ago. It can show up in your everyday life as anxiety, depression, chronic illness and pain, or struggles with food. Maybe you look like you have it all together, but inside you feel overwhelmed and exhausted. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Online trauma therapy can help you make sense of these feelings and find real relief, all from the comfort of your own home.

Many of us grow up with one shiny image of holidays: cozy homes, smiling families, twinkling lights, and perfect dinners. Movies and ads make it look effortless, peaceful, joyous. Social media only shows highlights. It's easy to believe everyone else lives in a snow globe while we're just trying to breathe.

But real holidays? They can be messy. Holidays do not make our stress, old family patterns, depression, or grief go away. We may be missing someone who isn’t there, and the empty chair feels extra loud. You feel disconnected from the people in the same room. Or you may notice how the holiday has missed the mark, not met your expectations. The season can bring up old (and new) hurts, even when all you want is a little peace.

Life gets heavy at times. You may be dealing with a big change, old hurt, stress, or burnout. You may also be managing trauma, anxiety, chronic illness, or depression. You may feel pressure to keep going at work or at home, even when you feel drained. If this describes you, you are not alone.

It is hard to focus on goals when your mind and body feel worn down. You may feel slow, tired, or unfocused. You may shut down or slip into old habits. This is not a lack of effort. It is your body trying to keep you safe. When we are under stress, the brain shifts into survival mode. Planning and goal-setting become harder.

Rebuilding Self-Esteem and Identity After Trauma: How to Rediscover Yourself

Rediscovering Yourself After Life Changes

Major life disruptions, like trauma, loss, or significant changes, can really shake up how we see ourselves and the world around us. These events often leave us feeling disconnected and overwhelmed by all the uncertainty. We often want to turn back the clock to who we were before and forget what happened to us. But we need to learn who we are after the trauma, the loss, or major life shifts. As we begin to focus on our personal values, strengths, and the experiences that have shaped us, we can learn to navigate this journey and redefine who we are.

Have you ever noticed how the quiet of nighttime seems to switch on a loudspeaker in your brain, replaying old conversations, worries, and regrets? You are not alone! This process of repetitive, looping thoughts is called rumination. In my therapy practice, clients often ask, "Why does my brain do this? And how can I stop it?" Let's unpack exactly why this happens, the neuroscience behind it, and what you can do about it to improve your sleep.

Anyone who has struggled with anxiety knows that it can make you feel tense, nervous, and unable to relax. Finding ways to reduce anxiety and increase relaxation is key to managing anxious thoughts. Getting outdoors is scientifically proven and evidence-based to improve mental health and reduce stress, anxiety, and anger. Luckily, living in Massachusetts, there are many opportunities to spend time outdoors and reduce anxiety while at it.

Some days are harder than others. Here is a reminder sheet to help you through those tough times. 

If you have ever been confused about anxiety terms or what they mean, here is a breakdown of the most commonly used terms related to anxiety.

Are you wondering if you have anxiety? It can be hard to tell if our worries are situational and helpful, or excessive and unhelpful. Do you find yourself wondering if your level of worry unhelpful or “normal”? You may be asking yourself, “Does everyone worry about fill in the blank? or “ How do other people manage their days without worrying about fill in the blank?

10 tips for managing and reducing anxiety.