Why Your New Year's Resolutions Might Be Doomed
Episode Overview
Resolutions often fail because they are misunderstood survival strategies, not just habits. Understanding the biology of trauma can help address the root cause of these behaviours. Creating safety and support within the nervous system is crucial for change. Expanding capacity for stress allows for healthier coping mechanisms. Behaviour change requires addressing underlying emotional needs.
"Rachel wasn't eating because she lacked discipline. She was eating because her nervous system was finding that as a way to keep emotions manageable."
Curious about why your New Year's resolutions tend to fizzle out by February? Dr. Aimie Apigian dives into this common struggle, revealing how our biology might be the culprit. In this episode of 'The Biology of Trauma,' Dr. Aimie explores the idea that what we often dismiss as 'bad habits' are actually survival strategies ingrained in our nervous systems. Meet Rachel, a successful marketing director who struggles with late-night snacking.
Despite her best efforts, she finds herself back in the kitchen, cereal box in hand. It's not about willpower, Dr. Aimie explains; it's about understanding the biological need for these behaviours. Dr. Aimie challenges the traditional approach to breaking habits, suggesting that real change requires addressing the underlying survival strategies. She highlights the importance of creating safety and support within our nervous systems to reduce reliance on these strategies.
This isn't just about behaviour change—it's about expanding our capacity to handle stress without reverting to old patterns. Through engaging anecdotes and practical advice, Dr. Aimie offers a fresh perspective on why resolutions fail and how you can set yourself up for success by working with your biology, not against it. Could your resolutions be more than just habits to break? Tune in to find out how you can transform them into opportunities for growth and healing.