Allow me to share a little anecdote that might resonate with you. Imagine waking up one morning, the sun gently kissing your face, birds chirping outside your window, and a subtle breeze whispering promises of new beginnings. This is the story of Sarah, a woman who found herself at a crossroads, yearning for change but unsure of where to start.
As spring arrived, so did Sarah’s realization that it was time for a fresh start. Like clockwork, the season swept in, bringing with it a wave of inspiration and opportunity. It was as if nature itself was nudging her to embrace transformation.
You see, spring isn’t just about blooming flowers and longer days; it’s a symbolic reset button – a chance to shed old habits and embrace new ones. Katherine Milkman, a renowned behavioural economist, refers to this phenomenon as the “fresh start effect”. It’s the idea that certain moments in time serve as powerful catalysts for change, igniting our motivation to pursue our goals with renewed vigour.
Sarah’s journey mirrored Milkman’s research findings. As the days grew warmer and the world around her burst with life, Sarah felt a surge of energy and determination. It was as though the first day of spring marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life – a chapter filled with possibilities and opportunities for growth.
But why does spring hold such sway over our motivation? According to Milkman, it’s all about perception. Just as we view the start of a new year as a clean slate, so too do we see the arrival of spring as a chance to leave behind the shortcomings of the past and embrace a brighter future.
This sentiment echoed not only in the blooming flowers and rejuvenated landscapes but also in the essence of Easter – a celebration of new beginnings, fresh starts, and the ultimate symbol of rebirth and resurrection. Just as the earth awakens from its winter slumber, so too does the spirit of Easter inspire us to embrace transformation and embrace the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
In one of Milkman’s experiments, participants were asked to set goal reminders for specific dates, including the first day of spring. Surprisingly, the majority chose spring as their preferred start date, demonstrating the profound impact of seasonal changes on our behaviour.
But the fresh start effect isn’t confined to spring alone. Milkman’s research reveals that any significant milestone – a birthday, the start of a new week, or even the beginning of a new month – can serve as a catalyst for change. It’s all about recognizing these moments and harnessing their power to propel us forward.
So, how long does this motivational boost last? Well, it varies from person to person and from one milestone to the next. Some may find that their enthusiasm wanes after a few days, while others may ride the wave of motivation for weeks on end. The key is to capitalize on these moments of inspiration and seize the opportunity for change while it’s at its peak.
But how can we ensure that this newfound motivation lasts beyond the initial burst of enthusiasm? Drawing from insights in “Atomic Habits” by James Clear and “Why the F*ck Can’t I Change?” by Dr. Gabija Toleikyte , it’s essential to focus on building sustainable habits and fostering a growth mindset.
Start by setting small, manageable goals that align with your values and priorities. Break down larger aspirations into actionable steps, and celebrate each small victory along the way. Additionally, cultivate self-awareness and identify any obstacles or limiting beliefs that may be holding you back.
By practising mindfulness and self-compassion, you can navigate setbacks with resilience and stay committed to your journey of self-improvement. Finally, surround yourself with a supportive community or accountability partner who can cheer you on and provide encouragement when needed.
Remember, lasting change is a journey, not a destination, and with patience, perseverance, and the right strategies in place, you can turn your fresh start into a lasting transformation.
As Sarah embarked on her journey of self-improvement, she realized that spring wasn’t just a season; it was a state of mind – a reminder that change is inevitable, and that growth is always within reach. With each passing day, she felt herself becoming stronger, more resilient, and more determined to make the most of every opportunity that came her way.
In the end, Milkman’s research serves as a beacon of hope – a reminder that no matter where we are in life, there’s always room for growth and transformation. Whether it’s the first day of spring or the dawn of a new year, each moment presents us with a chance to rewrite our story and embrace the journey of self-discovery.
Finally, another invaluable tool to ensure the longevity of your fresh start is to dedicate a few moments to envisioning where you aspire to be, how you envision yourself, or what you aim to become. Direct your thoughts towards this future version of yourself and actively align your behaviours and emotions with this vision. By consistently moving in the direction of your desired future self, you pave the way for sustainable growth and lasting transformation.
So, as you bask in the warmth of spring and contemplate the possibilities that lie ahead, remember this: change begins with a single step, and there’s no better time to take that step than right now.
By Farah Naz
|| features@algarveresident.com
Farah Naz is a UK trained psychotherapist of more than 30 years and is a Clinical Hypnotherapist. She has worked with thousands of people globally for a range of issues. Farah has trained doctors, teachers and health workers on stress management. Currently, she has an online international practice and a private practice in the Algarve. www.iamfarah.com email: info@iamfarah.com
