by Feeling Great | Personal Growth
The Change: Turn Your New Year’s Resolutions Into Lasting Results
Make This Year the One Where Make Changes with Resolutions Last
Change and Resolutions? Want to transform your New Year into lasting success? You’re not alone! While many set goals with enthusiasm, few maintain them beyond the initial burst of motivation.
I’m not the biggest fan of traditional resolutions, but if this is your moment for change, grab it with both hands. Instead of vague promises, take a deliberate approach by reflecting on what’s working, what’s not, and what you truly want more of in your life.
For me, this year is all about decluttering—not just my space, but my mind and energy as well. Clearing out the unnecessary creates room for what truly matters.
Now, let’s talk about how you can turn your resolutions into real, lasting transformation. These six steps will help you break free from short-term motivation and create habits that stick!
6 Steps to Make Changes with Resolutions Last
1. Get Clear on Your Goal & Why It Matters
Vague resolutions like “I want to lose weight” won’t cut it. Instead, be specific and attach a compelling reason.
- Example: “I want to lose 10 kilos by April 24th for my school reunion because I want to wear my stunning red dress and feel confident.”
When your goal has meaning, you’ll have the inner drive to push through even when it gets tough.
Bonus Tip: Share your goal and resolutions with someone who will hold you accountable—they’ll remind you why you started when motivation dips.
2. Identify the Cost of Change
Change requires effort. What are you willing to invest?
- Is it time, energy, consistency, or stepping out of your comfort zone?
- Growth often comes with challenges, but embracing them is part of the process.
3. Learn from the Past
Ask yourself: What stopped me before?
- Was it boredom, lack of time, financial strain, or not having a big enough reason?
- Identify previous obstacles and create a plan to overcome them.
4. Build a Structure for Success
Motivation fades fast—often within minutes. What keeps you going?
- ✅ Rituals, accountability, and a solid strategy.
- ✅ A structured plan ensures you follow through even when motivation dips.
5. Remove the Safety Net
Lasting change means eliminating the option to quit.
- 🚫 No more excuses, self-negotiation, or rationalizing reasons to stop.
- ✅ Commit, do the work, and stay on track until new habits become your default setting.
6. Improvise, Adapt, Overcome
Life is unpredictable. Success isn’t about perfection—it’s about flexibility.
- When challenges arise, adjust and keep going rather than quitting.
- Develop a resilient mindset that helps you adapt instead of break down.
Ready to Make 2024 the Year of Real Change?
I hope these Resolutions steps spark your motivation for lasting transformation! Whether you’re tackling your resolutions on your own, here’s to a new year of success! Let’s make it count.
In connection with new year resolutions? you can also read this Turn New Year’s Resolutions into Action or this Fitting In Versus Belonging: Embrace Your True Self and if you find it helpful, share with us in the comments!
CLICK HERE if you need help to kickstart your journey!
by Feeling Great | Personal Growth, Spirit
Secrets to Happiness #2
This is Secrets to Happiness #2 it’s a Three-Part Series – Happiness
Happiness is the latest buzzword, but how’s your happiness barometer? I’m back with Secrets to Happiness #2! Next week, I’ll share the final secret in this series!
Secrets to Happiness #2 – Mastering Hardships Leads to Contentment
“A happy life exists not in the absence but in the mastery of hardships.” – Helen Keller
We all deserve Joy, but finding it requires effort. Bliss isn’t a destination—it’s a way of life. When you cultivate it, you’ll reach goals faster, build stronger relationships, perform better at work, and be a joy to be around.
Interestingly, happiness has a set point that remains steady regardless of circumstances. Studies show:
- 50% of your joyfulness is genetic.
- 40% comes from intentional actions.
- 10% is influenced by external factors like health and social status.
Variety, Flow, and Connection
Experiencing variety and spending time in nature are powerful happiness boosters. In fact, did you know that without new experiences, your brain loses dopamine, the chemical linked to joy and motivation?
Like a muscle, your brain thrives on activity. Being in flow—completely absorbed in the present—improves brain health and enhances happiness. Studies confirm that those who experience flow regularly report higher life satisfaction.
Integrating and accepting all parts of life, both good and bad, fosters resilience. Overcoming adversity strengthens your ability to bounce back faster and appreciate life’s journey.
“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” – Helen Keller
Does Money Buy Happiness?
Society often teaches us that more money leads to happiness. However, research proves otherwise. Once basic needs are met, earning more doesn’t significantly boost happiness. In fact, there’s little difference in happiness levels between someone earning $50K per year and another making $5 million.
What truly makes people happy?
- Strong, supportive relationships with family and friends.
- Pursuing intrinsic goals like personal growth, community involvement, and deep connections.
- Less focus on extrinsic goals such as wealth, status, or image.
- A sense of interdependence with others and the natural world.
- Daily practices of laughter, gratitude, and compassion.
Lessons from the Happiest Places on Earth
Denmark consistently ranks as the happiest country. Why? Citizens enjoy free healthcare and education, and co-housing communities foster connection. Families share meals, children grow up surrounded by elders, and a deep sense of belonging thrives.
In Japan, Okinawans live the longest. Their secret? Rituals of regular gatherings between different villages and generations. Social connection, collaboration, and belonging are highly valued. Even science backs this—cooperation triggers a dopamine release, fueling happiness.
The Heart of Happiness
As Helen Keller wisely said, “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart.”
Joy stems from connection. Be authentic and embrace what truly makes you happy. Since happiness is a skill, the formula isn’t the same for everyone.
Your happiness blueprint includes:
- New experiences
- Play and fun
- Time with loved ones
- Meaningful activities
- Appreciating what you have
So, step forward and create your own path to happiness! If you haven’t read the part 1? here’s the link to it and share with us how it go! Secrets To Happiness #1 (3 part series)
CLICK HERE to book consultation with me and let me help you create your own path to happiness!
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing, Spirit
Secrets to Happiness #1: Secret 1
Happiness is something we all seek, yet many struggle to find. A common question I hear is, “What are the secrets to happiness?” Over the next three weeks, I’ll be sharing my insights. Let’s start with Secrets to Happiness #1.
Secrets to Happiness #1: Love People, Use Things
“Love people and use things, because the opposite never works.” – The Minimalists
I recently watched a thought-provoking documentary, Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things on Netflix. A friend recommended it, and I found the message incredibly powerful—quality over quantity.
In Western society, we have more comfort and convenience than ever before. Yet, we often crave more—more things, bigger houses, the latest gadgets. While this survival instinct once kept us alive in harsh conditions, today, it fuels a cycle of discontent.
Are You Buying Happiness?
Mass media constantly tells us that happiness comes from having more. We’re bombarded with ads pushing the next best thing, making us believe we need the latest, the biggest, the best. But does accumulating more really make us happier?
Many of us live in homes filled with unused spaces and clutter. If you mapped out which rooms you actually use daily, how much of your house would light up? The truth is, most of us are trapped in an earn-spend cycle, trying to fill emotional gaps with material things.
The Power of Simplifying
Decluttering is a powerful step toward happiness. It’s about keeping what serves a purpose and letting go of excess. Honoring your possessions rather than feeding mindless consumerism brings clarity and peace.
Today’s throwaway culture promotes endless consumption. Fashion trends change weekly. Ads target children with new toys, gadgets, and fast food. The pressure to buy never stops. But here’s the good news—you can choose to step off the hamster wheel.
Instead of chasing more, focus on meaningful experiences, deep connections, and mindful decisions. Ask yourself:
- Do I really need this, or is it an impulse buy?
- Will this bring long-term joy, or just a temporary high?
- Am I prioritizing relationships and experiences over possessions?
Live Intentionally for True Happiness – Secret 1
An intentional life is a key to happiness. It’s not about perfection or deprivation—it’s about balance. Surround yourself with like-minded people, be deliberate with your choices, and focus on what truly matters.
Happiness isn’t about having more; it’s about appreciating what you already have. Stay tuned for Part 2 next week! the Secrets To Happiness #2 (3 part series) where we’ll explore another powerful secret to a joyful life!
CLICK HERE to book your session with me and let me help you achieve your happiness!
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing
4 Energy Suckers That Aren’t Diet-Related
Have you adjusted your diet but still feel drained? If you’re dragging through the day despite eating well, it may be time to identify the hidden energy drainers in your life. These energy suckers aren’t related to food, but they can have just as much impact on your well-being.
Here are 4 Common Energy Suckers that may be holding you back:
1. Clutter Drains Your Energy
Clutter does more than take up space—it weighs you down mentally and emotionally. It’s exhausting to sift through unused, unnecessary, and outdated items daily.
Ask yourself:
- What am I holding onto that no longer serves me?
- Do I feel overwhelmed by physical or emotional clutter
- Is my energy being spent on past regrets, old beliefs, or toxic relationships?
Letting go of what’s no longer needed frees up mental space and boosts your energy. Even small steps, like clearing a drawer or releasing a grudge, can make a difference.
2. Absorbing Others’ Projections Drains You
Have you ever heard things like, “It’s normal to feel tired at your age” or “Motherhood is exhausting—just accept it”? These are other people’s beliefs, not facts.
When someone projects their views onto you, it’s easy to take them on as truth. But ask yourself:
- Is my tiredness truly mine, or am I absorbing someone else’s perspective?
- Does this belief empower me or hold me back?
If you start feeling lighter and more energized after questioning these assumptions, it may be time to let go of external influences.
3. Ignoring Your Body’s Needs Drains Energy
Your body has its own intelligence. When you tune in and listen, it will guide you toward what it truly needs.
Take a moment to ask yourself: “What would give me more energy right now?” You might be surprised by the answers—maybe a walk by the ocean, a moment of deep breathing, or a simple stretch.
Ignoring your body’s signals leads to fatigue and burnout. Instead, start trusting its wisdom and honoring its needs.
4. Holding Onto What’s Not Working Drains You
Are you tired of a routine, a job, or a relationship that no longer feels right? Resisting necessary change can deplete your energy.
Ask yourself:
- What am I tired of?
- What no longer serves me?
- Am I resisting change because it feels uncomfortable?
Releasing what’s outdated creates space for new opportunities, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.
“Sometimes it’s necessary to call a weed a weed and do a little pruning in the garden of life.” – Julie Smethurst
Ready to Cut Out Energy Suckers?
If you need help identifying and clearing energy suckers from your life, CLICK HERE to book a session. Let’s take the first step toward a more energized and fulfilling life today.
You want to read about how to create more time for yourself even when it’s busy? Check this Reignite Your Spark to read more about boosting energy! You can also read Holistic Health and Wellbeing to improve health in deeper level
High five! Julie XX (Naturopath, Life Coach, Pharmacist) 0438 593523
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing
Feeling Well: What Does It Really Mean?
What Does “Feeling Well” Mean to You?
Every day, I ask my clients: “What would you love to change?”
I often hear:
- “I want more energy.”
- “I need to lose weight.”
- “I just want to feel good.”
But what does feeling well actually mean? Does it look the same for everyone, or is it deeply personal?
For me, feeling good happens when I prioritize my well-being. I listen to my body, care for my mind, and make choices that support my health. When I do this, I feel energized, clear-headed, optimistic, and strong. Life flows more easily.
What about you? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Listening to Your Body’s Signals
Your body is always communicating with you. If you feel drained, sluggish, or stuck in a fog, it’s a sign to pause and reassess.
I’ve been there myself. For years, I pushed through a job that no longer aligned with my values. No matter how much my mind told me to keep going, my body fought back—chronic sinus infections, fatigue, autoimmune issues, and low mood.
The more I ignored the signs, the worse it got. Sound familiar?
- A study from NCBI found that people who feel understood by others report higher life satisfaction and fewer physical symptoms.
Let that sink in—your emotions impact your health.
The Power of Letting Go
For the longest time, I resisted change. I believed that pushing harder was the answer. But when I finally let go—when I stopped forcing what wasn’t working—I discovered the truth:
- Slowing down doesn’t mean giving up.
- Rest is productive.
- Your feelings are valuable guidance, not obstacles.
Many people call it “letting go and letting God.” Whatever you call it, honoring how you feel can be life-changing.
Are You Truly Living?
Endless busyness can be a distraction from what really matters. Ask yourself:
- When was the last time I wrote down what’s most important to me?
- Am I truly living in alignment with my values?
Most of us live as if we have forever, but the truth is—we don’t.
I hear so many powerful stories in my work. Time and time again, I’ve seen incredible resilience. Some of the strongest, kindest, most compassionate people have endured unimaginable challenges, yet they keep going.
The human spirit is remarkable. You are far more capable than you think.
Life Will Give You Signs—Are You Paying Attention?
Life has a way of nudging you back on track.
- First, it taps you on the shoulder.
- Then, it nudges a little harder.
- Eventually, it hits you over the head or stops you in your tracks.
Where are you right now?
- Running on empty?
- Wishing the pain or discomfort would just stop.
- When was the last time you truly checked in with yourself and wrote down how you feel?
If you’re feeling lost, exhausted, or disconnected, it’s time to take action.
Ready to Feel Good Again?
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. If you need support to get back on track, let’s chat.
Book a 30-Minute Feeling Well Discovery Session and take the first step toward smiling, thriving, and feeling like YOU again. Click here to book your session now.
With love,
Julie xxx
For more information about Wellbeing, read this Stress – Immune System Sabotage and if it helps you share your thoughts with us.
