Guest Post by Alumnus, A.W.

It’s that time of year again when the holiday rush is winding down and everyone is now turning their attention to the New Year. For a lot of people, the New Year symbolizes a time to start over, refresh, and make changes in their life. I’ve found that like most people in the United States, my friends and family’s resolutions are mainly focused on eating, exercise and weight. Whether it’s joining a gym, committing to working out more, or switching to a gluten-free diet, so many people make resolutions that focus on these topics that may be triggering for a person who is recovery from an eating disorder. I know for me personally my past resolutions have always been focused on eating “healthier” and exercising more. But now that I’m in recovery, I’m realizing that these types of resolutions aren’t helpful for me or for my recovery. Sure it’s tempting to agree to sign up for a new gym membership with a friend, or try becoming a vegan with my roommate, but if I really think about it neither of these changes or any other body-altering resolutions are going to support my recovery. So this year I’ve decided to try something new: a New Year without resolutions. Instead of creating expectations or rules for myself, I hope this year I can focus on being present in the moment and being the authentic, real me. For the first time, I don’t want to think of ways to make myself different or better. I just want to be me, the way I am, and see what happens. For everyone in recovery from an eating disorder, I wish you well on your journey and hope that you know you’re amazing just the way you are. You don’t have to be different or better; being yourself is enough. Happy New Year!