As the school term begins, it’s hard to believe how quickly time has flown. It feels like just yesterday we were sharing our New Year’s resolutions:
“This year, I’m going to…”
“This time next year, I’ll be…”
“I’ve been meaning to, and now I’m finally going to…”
Resolutions are admirable and made with the best intentions. But the truth is, the barriers to success are plentiful. Gym owners, for example, love the “get fit” resolution—it fills their coffers for a few months as memberships skyrocket. Yet, a study from the University of Adelaide reveals that while 38% of people set resolutions, 91% abandon them by the end of January.
Why do resolutions so often fail? Because the pathway to success is full of distractions—some within our control, others beyond it.
The Case for Reflection
Rather than diving headfirst into resolutions, I believe we should begin with reflection. Reflection is grounded in facts, not fiction. It helps us identify patterns, issues, and stresses that deplete our mental fitness.
Consider 2024:
What issues pushed your buttons?
When did your mental fitness feel most depleted?
Was it due to:
Unreasonable parent requests?
Constant policy changes with no consultation?
Overwhelming principal deadlines?
Saying “yes” too often to colleagues?
Inconsistent pupil behavior?
The never-ending buzz of notifications?
Ask yourself:
How did I respond to these situations?
Did I have any influence over the initial cause?
Subtraction, Not Addition
Instead of adding more to your life, focus on subtracting. Subtract what drains your energy. For me, reflection revealed that many of my negative reactions stemmed from things beyond my control.
What I can control is how I react and what action I take afterward.
As Victor Frankl wisely said:
“There is space between stimulus and response.”
In 2025, I’m committed to using that space. I want to pause, choose my response, and channel my energy wisely.
This simple practice—rooted in reflection—has the power to transform negative energy into positive opportunities. It’s not about doing more; it’s about being intentional with how we move forward.
What reflection can help you with a subtraction?
コメント