Create a New Year’s Theme Instead of New Year’s Resolution!

I’ve noticed a growing trend in shifting away from traditional New Year’s resolutions. Instead, more people are embracing the idea of a New Year’s Theme — a guiding principle that helps shape intentions and decisions throughout the year.

Choosing a New Year’s theme is especially empowering for plus size women who are seeking to live fuller, richer lives while embracing their authentic selves. Let’s dive into why themes are such a refreshing alternative to resolutions and how our 2025 theme, New Year, More You, can inspire and guide us all.

Why a New Year’s Theme Instead of Resolutions?

Traditional resolutions often feel rigid and prescriptive, leaving little room for flexibility or growth. Research supports this shift in mindset. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, focusing on broader themes or intentions can lead to greater long-term satisfaction and success compared to specific resolutions, which often falter by mid-February

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On top of that, did you know that only 8% of people actually achieve their resolutions? Something has to give and change here, right? So instead of a list of New Year’s Resolutions that could set us up for failure or resentment, why not a New Year’s theme that could inspire change, motivation, and nourish ourselves?

Dr. Rachel Glik emphasizes this idea, explaining that “themes are inherently gentler and more holistic. Instead of setting yourself up for frustration, a theme supports you in taking daily actions that align with the essence of your desired growth.” She continues on to explain that “Themes are more effective than resolutions in large part because they are geared toward an internal change of mindset and not just an external goal or behavior change.”

By choosing a theme, you give yourself permission to explore, expand, and evolve organically, rather than feeling confined by a checklist of goals. For example, instead of resolving to “lose weight,” you might adopt a theme like “nourish,” which could manifest in nurturing your body, mind, and relationships.

The Power of “New Year, More You”

For 2025, our TCF theme is New Year, More You. This phrase encapsulates the idea of stepping into the fullness of who you are and allowing yourself to shine brighter. It’s about rejecting limitations, embracing abundance, and making space for the things that truly light you up. For us plus size women, this theme is particularly poignant. Too often, society’s narratives around size encourage shrinking or minimizing. This year, we’re flipping the script to focus on more — more confidence, more joy, more opportunities.

Dr. Glik suggests that when embracing a theme, “you open yourself up to endless possibilities for expansion and creativity,” making it easier to integrate this mindset into every area of life.

Here’s how You can Join in on our New Year’s Theme of New Year, More You:

1. More Self-Expression

• Find ways to express your personality through fashion, hobbies, or creative outlets. Curate a wardrobe that reflects your unique style and makes you feel unstoppable.
• Dive into brands that celebrate size inclusivity and individuality, like Eloquii or Rebdolls, to find pieces that resonate with your vibe.

2. More Self-Care

• Prioritize your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This could mean carving out time for mindfulness practices, trying movement that feels joyful, or nourishing your body with foods that energize you.
• Treat yourself to solo experiences that spark joy. Take yourself out to dinner, visit an art exhibit, or attend a live show — indulging in activities alone can be a powerful way to reconnect with your passions and recharge your energy.
• Resources like the Self-Care for Plus Size Women guide from PsychCentral can help tailor practices to your needs.

3. More Community

• Lean into connections with others who uplift and inspire you. Attend events or join communities that celebrate plus size women and foster belonging, such as The Curvy Fashionista’s curated events calendar.

4. More Opportunities

• Take bold steps toward personal and professional growth. Whether it’s pursuing a dream job, launching a passion project, or simply saying “yes” to opportunities that excite you, remember that you’re deserving of abundance.

The Simplicity of a Theme

A New Year’s theme, as one article beautifully put it, is “just one thing.” It’s easy to remember and flexible enough to adapt to whatever life throws your way. Think of it as your North Star — a touchstone to return to when you’re unsure of your next move. It’s not about perfection; it’s about intention.

Dr. Glik reinforces this by stating, “Themes help us stay grounded while allowing for creativity and growth. They give us permission to adjust without feeling like we’ve failed.”

Moving Forward with Intention

This year, let’s leave behind the pressure of unrealistic resolutions and embrace the possibility of New Year, More You. Let 2025 be the year you:

• Celebrate your unique beauty and style.
• Prioritize joy and connection.
• Step boldly into spaces that affirm your worth.

Together, let’s create a year where we show up as our fullest, brightest selves. After all, there’s no one quite like you — and that’s something worth celebrating.

What is Your New Year’s Theme for 2025?

How are you going to ensure 2025 is a year of forward growth, movement, or achievement with your goals?