New Year’s Resolutions? Small Changes Lead to Big (Beautiful) Results!

New Year’s Resolutions: Small Changes Lead to Big (Beautiful) Results!New Year’s Resolutions. We all make them. And after two long years of COVID, I am sure that we agree that we could all use a fresh, new start in 2022!

At the top of most of our lists are self-improvement resolutions, such as “losing weight.” And, who couldn’t stand to lose a few pounds after indulging throughout the holidays? (I know I could.)  Other resolutions, such as “getting organized” or “becoming healthier” are also very common.

Unfortunately, a lot of these resolutions fail, even before the first month is out. According to author Jen A. Miller in The New York Times article, “How to Make (and Keep) a New Year’s Resolution,” a resolution may fail for one of three main reasons:

“1. It’s a resolution created based on what someone else (or society) is telling you to change. 2. It’s too vague. 3. You don’t have a realistic plan for achieving your resolution.”

Miller explains that a resolution needs to be S.M.A.R.T. In order to succeed, your resolution needs to be:

  • S – specific
  • M – measurable
  • A- achievable
  • R- relevant
  • T – time-bound

Although resolutions (in theory) should be positive and uplifting, if we fall short of our expectations, we often feel depressed and defeated. So, start small. After all, small changes can lead to big results! This year, why not start with a few specific, very easy to implement “resolutions” for the new year that will make you feel beautiful? A fresh start may be just this simple:

Change your hair color or cut. This need not be dramatic (at first!). Add some highlights or low lights. Experiment with bangs. If you’re not ready for a permanent change, try an up-do if you usually wear hair loose, or test out extensions. You can even add an unexpected hair accessory (my new faves are 100% silk scrunchies from Lovanie).

According to author Susan Krauss Whitbourne Ph.D. in “What Your Hair Really Says About You” for Psychology Today, “Because it is so visible, though, hair also becomes a part of a person’s identity. It helps define the persona you aim to create to impress others, whether as an intellectual, a sexual being, a rebel, or some combination of the above. Hair can also influence the way you define yourself to yourself, as an extension of your identity.” So, the question is, who do you want to be in 2022?

Pucker up! Trying a sassy new lipstick is one of my favorite ways to perk up from my post-holiday doldrums. But, you can also experiment with false eyelashes, liquid liner, or bronzer to add some punch to your daily makeup routine. You may discover a new fave or completely change your signature look!

Clean out your closet. If you are still holding on to clothing, shoes and accessories that no longer fit or are hopelessly out of date, now is the time to purge. You may even rediscover fabulous items you’ve forgotten that you have! If you feel badly jettisoning barely worn items, do what my daughter does and organize a clothing swap amongst friends. It’s a fun way to add to your wardrobe and let someone else enjoy that pricey, gorgeous sweater that unfortunately, was really never your color.

A closet makeover should also include some organization. Almost three years after installation, I am still in love with my system from Closets By Design. But, you need not indulge in a complete overhaul. Some cute organizing bins and multi-level hangers from The Container Store can make all of the difference and create plenty of space… for new pieces!

Add a coveted piece. The after-Christmas sales have begun in earnest! Now is a wonderful time to pick up that one stunning piece that you’ve been eyeing up all season. A few of my top picks include a new leather handbag and some updated equestrian boots. It’s also a perfect time to invest in a new coat or jacket, as store prices will be deeply discounted in order to make room for new spring merchandise.

Whatever resolutions you choose, here’s to a beautiful 2022…

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DISCLAIMER: I was not financially compensated in any way for this New Year’s Resolutions post. My thoughts and opinions are strictly my own and were not influenced in any way by any manufacturers listed.

Named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone.com, Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion and accessories, to gorgeous gardens, stunning interiors, plus the latest products and ideas for chic parties, you’ll find it here. Editor Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait

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