Every December, we sit back and reflect on the last year and the new one right around the corner. New Year's Resolutions are a popular topic of conversation. Some people take them very seriously - writing them down and revisiting the goal often. Others talk about it, but don't have much follow-through. What you might not realize is that setting a New Year's Resolution can actually be good for you. If you've ever considered setting a New Year's Resolution, check out the five benefits below.

1. Builds confidence through goal setting

In general, taking the time to set a goal for yourself can actually result in a confidence boost. Whether you accomplish it or not, the strategies you'll put into action can be enough to see positive results. According to Forbes, the process of setting and working towards a goal helps you to mentally realize you can accomplish something. That feeling of accomplishment has a direct correlation with long-term self-efficiency. 

2. Provides a chance for self-reflection

Sitting down and thinking about where you want to go next year requires thinking through where you've been. We live in a fast-paced world, but setting a New Year's Resolution requires us to pause. Pause and think through the moments that were memorable for one reason or another. Did you take an amazing trip or do something that was a lot of fun? Think through ways you might be able to duplicate those feelings in the coming year. Did you go through something difficult, or spend too much time worrying about things you shouldn't have? Use those experiences to prioritize your time moving forward.

3. Takes you out of your comfort zone

A lot of people associate a New Year's Resolution with giving something up or doing more or less of something you're already doing. This year, try framing it with the mindset of 'what haven't I tried yet'. Maybe there's a place you've always wanted to go, but you haven't been there. Or maybe there's a skill or hobby you've been wanting to try, but haven't set aside the time to do it. Setting your resolution up to challenge yourself in new and unique ways helps to take you out of your comfort zone in the best possible way.

4. Develops your personal relationships

According to the American Psychological Association, loneliness levels in adults are at a national high. As many as 40% of adults reported frequent feelings of isolation. Consider finding an accountability buddy for your resolution. Not only will it help you stay on track with your goals, but it is also a great way to strengthen that relationship. Whether they have the same resolution as you, or you just set them up together - it gives you something to talk about all year long.

5. Improves your overall health

While not all resolutions are health-focused, many people do include themes of weight loss ideas or physical fitness. The new year can be a great time to reset and refocus on being the best 'you' that you can. For some people, they want to start cooking for themselves more regularly. Others may want to join a gym and create a fitness goal. For mental health, you might even think about options like learning to meditate, or starting to journal. No matter what wellness initiatives resonate most with you, consider making health a part of your New Year's Resolution.

Want to get started? Spooky Nook Sports Champion Mill is home to some of the best personal trainers in the business who are here to help people at any experience level improve their fitness. Individual attention from a professional trainer can help you build critical skills, adjust training habits, and be a more strategic player, building the foundation for future success in your sport or your health. Learn more about how to get started here.