Dreading teh New Year? A Psychologist Offers Solutions
For many, the New Year signifies fresh starts and renewed hope.But for some, the approach of January 1st brings a sense of dread rather than excitement. If you find yourself unexpectedly dreading the upcoming holidays, you’re not alone. Psychologist Kirill Lipsky offers insights into why this might be happening and provides practical steps to reclaim the joy of the season.
“A lack of joy in the New Year could be the result of accumulated stress, fatigue, climate, or disappointment from a reality that does not meet your expectations,” explains Lipsky. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection to pinpoint the root cause of these negative feelings. “Think about what exactly is bothering you: overload with worries, lack of change, failure to achieve goals, or emotional exhaustion.”
Lipsky suggests a proactive approach to combatting these negative emotions. He advises a recalibration of expectations and the creation of personalized New Year’s traditions. “Reset your expectations and create your own New Year’s traditions that will bring you joy,” he says. “Choose the format of the holiday that you like,even if you want to celebrate the holiday in a small company. Focus on the process: decorate the house, buy gifts, make plans and goals for the coming year.”
Nostalgia can also play a powerful role. Lipsky encourages individuals to tap into positive past experiences: “Try to remember what made your New Years special as a child, and, if possible, create those same moments for yourself.” Beyond festive activities, he stresses the importance of self-care. “Pay attention to your rest and posture, as fatigue or internal tension can cause apathy.”
Ultimately, Lipsky emphasizes the importance of self-awareness. “Ask yourself: what would you like to get from the holidays? You might potentially be struggling for new feelings,meaning,or just relaxation,so listen to yourself and arrange a vacation for yourself.” By understanding your needs and actively working towards fulfilling them,you can transform a perhaps stressful time into a period of rejuvenation and positive reflection.
Conquering New Year Dread: An Interview wiht Psychologist Kirill Lipsky
Senior Editor Maria Sanchez of world-today-news.com sat down with renowned psychologist Dr. Kirill Lipsky to discuss the rising phenomenon of New Year dread adn explore practical solutions for reclaiming holiday joy.
Maria Sanchez: Dr. Lipsky, many people associate the New Year with excitement and new beginnings. Yet, we’re seeing a growing number of individuals experiencing dread rather than joy. What are your insights into this trend?
Dr. kirill Lipsky: Absolutely, Maria. While the New Year can be a time of hope, it can also magnify underlying issues. The pressure to achieve resolutions, financial stress, seasonal affective disorder, and even just the reflection on unrealized goals can contribute to feelings of anxiety and dread.
Maria Sanchez: So,how can individuals combat these negative feelings and reclaim the joy of the season?
Dr. Kirill Lipsky: The key is self-awareness and proactive steps. Encourage readers to reflect on the root causes of their dread. Is it fatigue, unmet expectations, or a sense of loneliness? Once identified, they can address those issues head-on.
I also recommend setting realistic expectations, creating personalized traditions that bring joy, and prioritizing self-care. Simpler things like getting enough rest, engaging in enjoyable activities, and spending time with loved ones can make a significant difference.
Maria sanchez: That’s valuable advice, Dr. Lipsky. Any final thoughts for our readers?
Dr. Kirill Lipsky: Remember, the New Year is a blank slate. Don’t let dread overshadow the possibility of new beginnings. Choose to create a holiday experience that aligns with your values and brings you genuine happiness.
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