At the beginning of each calendar year, many of us reflect on our habits, plan meaningful changes, explore tools to modify our behavior, set goals, and ultimately, adopt new practices. We strive for growth across different areas and become intentional not just about dreaming but about realizing our dreams. This is what we call New Year’s resolutions. Sometimes, these resolutions are very general; other times, they are very specific. Regardless of the extent, our efforts for intentional and meaningful change do not always have to be tied to a New Year’s resolution! We are free to set priorities based on our personal needs, wishes, timelines, and readiness for change.

We all prioritize different aspects of life for our own reasons and at our own pace. It is important to remember that in any pursuit, our thoughts, feelings, and actions must be aligned. Aspirations for positive change do not have to remain mere contemplation; with determination, they can move to realization! However, who are we to question such a choice unless it directly concerns us? By practicing self-exploration and self-reflection, we can start the journey to achieve positive change, and what better place to start than by caring for the engine of human functioning: Our Brain. All the processes we follow, the decisions we make, the goals and care priorities we set, and many other aspects of our existence are managed by the brain, and to operate, it needs lifelong resolutions for care. 

To truly care for our brain, we have to achieve, optimize, and maintain its health. This is a task that requires fostering and preserving alignment among our thoughts, feelings, and actions, and it does not need to be confined to a specific time of the year (no need for a New Year’s resolution).

Brain health care practices may not be much different from some of the resolutions we are already pursuing. For instance, many of us strive for restoration by improving our sleep, for nourishment by eating healthy and nutritious meals, for physical strength and vitality by exercising, for mental and social stimulation by sharing meaningful connections, and for a balanced living by managing stress. 

What if we became more intentional and engaged in activities that shape and promote brain health while optimizing our living over time? Some practices can trigger the release of key neurochemicals (Serotonin, Dopamine, Endorphins, etc.) that enhance our functioning and support a healthier life. As we embark on self-exploration and self-reflection, we can consider some actionable practices. For instance: 

• Formulating priorities and managing internal and external expectations based on realistic goals, so our attention is properly directed.

• Pacing ourselves and avoiding unnecessary pressure, honoring the time once was, the one we live in, and the one to come. All this without compromising our sense of well-being and our motivation to thrive.

• Practicing gratitude for what we have, who we are, and whom we have with us, as we celebrate not only our own but also their journeys. 

• Nurturing positive relationships and quality time with others and in solitude, always trying to minimize unpleasant and undesirable interactions and environments.

• Cherishing the beauty of nature, the companionship of pets, the sounds of music, the periods of silence, and the mindful breathing that strengthen our mind. 

• Cultivating and expressing human values such as compassion, generosity, respect, care, without forgetting the moments of joy and laughter that lift us.  

We can start working on these according to our own timeline and readiness for change. We do not need to wait for New Year’s resolutions to start caring for our brains.

Let it be a lifelong commitment so that the thoughts we have, the feelings we experience, and the actions we take create a timeless brain health resolution.

By Licet Valois, LMSW, MPS, CDP

Behavioral Health Doctorate Student