This time of year is primed for reflection. The evenings are dark and cold, we’re out and about with friends and family and we’re waving goodbye to the last 12 months. Everything feels more emotionally charged: simple activities like going for a walk or baking some cookies become symbolic traditions, and everyone’s that little bit more sentimental.

I’m a big fan of self-reflection. I love the opportunity to look back on everything that’s happened over the past year and make plans for the one that lies ahead. But what I don’t like about all this reflection is the pressure to make big changes because of it.

I’m talking, of course, about the idea of setting new years resolutions. The idea that you need to become a different person just because the year is ending isn’t just unrealistic, it can be harmful. In the past, I’ve beaten myself up over not working out every day, doing enough steps or going to bed on time every night – and I’ve grown sick of falling into the same old trap. That’s why I set new year goals instead.

“I set new year goals, not resolutions – and here’s why you should too”