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New Year’s Resolutions: The Pros, Cons, and a Different Approach for Life with a Stoma, Ostomy

The start of a new year often feels like a fresh chapter, brimming with possibilities. Many of us set New Year’s resolutions, hoping to make big changes or achieve lofty goals. But are they really the best way forward—especially when living with a stoma, ostomy?

One way to think about this is not to call all what you want to achieve a New Year’s Resolution. How many times have you said New Year’s Resolution and after a short time they have fallen by the way side? So let’s turn this on it’s head and give it a different name such as targets, goals etc

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The Pros of New Year’s Resolutions

Setting resolutions or what you decided to call your achievement to be can be motivating. They give us something to strive for, a clear vision of what we’d like to achieve. For some, this structure can provide focus and direction, helping to channel energy into personal growth.

The Cons of New Year’s Resolutions

While resolutions can be inspiring, they’re often set too high or are overly ambitious. This can lead to frustration or feelings of failure if we don’t meet our goals. For those living with a stoma, ostomy, added pressures like adjusting to daily routines, dealing with anxiety, or managing health complications can make broad resolutions feel overwhelming or unattainable.

One of the things that keeps me motivated is WHY I am wanting to achieve this, for me I call them goals. If your why isn’t not driven by emotion or puts you in a different state to complete then you are very unlikely to achieve it.

A Different Approach: Smaller, Monthly Targets

Instead of big, year-long resolutions, consider setting smaller, monthly targets. This approach is less daunting and allows for more flexibility. Monthly goals provide the opportunity to reassess what works for you and adapt as needed.

Here are a few examples:

• January: Commit to walking for 15 minutes a day to ease back into gentle movement.
• February: Try a new recipe that accommodates your dietary needs.
• March: Focus on self-care by journaling once a week about your feelings or experiences living with a stoma, ostomy.

By breaking your goals into smaller, more manageable steps, you can celebrate each success along the way and maintain a sense of accomplishment throughout the year.

Tips for Creating Realistic Goals

• Be specific. Instead of saying, “I want to be healthier,” aim for something measurable, like drinking an extra glass of water daily.
• Make it achievable. Set yourself up for success with goals that fit into your current lifestyle.
• Focus on your well-being. Prioritize mental, emotional, and physical health over perfection.

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Living with a Stoma, Ostomy: Building a Positive Mindset

Living with a stoma, ostomy can bring unique challenges, but it can also teach resilience. When setting goals, remember to:

• Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small.
• Celebrate your strength in adapting to life with a stoma, ostomy.
• Be kind to yourself on days when things feel hard.

What Will You Focus on This Month?

New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be overwhelming. By thinking small and embracing flexibility, you can set goals that bring joy and fulfillment. Let’s make this year about progress, not perfection.

What’s one small step you can take today to make your year brighter? Comment below, or join my community, “Stoma, Ostomy: What a Bag,” https://www.facebook.com/groups/stomaostomywhatabag for more tips and support.

Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, compassion, and positivity! ❤️

My Journey: From Diagnosis to Empowerment 💪🌸

Hi, I’m Helinka, and my story began in 2013 when I was diagnosed with bowel cancer. What followed was life-changing—a surgery that left me with an ileostomy. Like many others in my position, I faced challenges that affected not only my physical health but also my confidence, mental well-being, and sense of identity.

At first, I struggled to embrace this new reality. I didn’t just want to live with a stoma, ostomy; I wanted to thrive. But finding products that made me feel confident, beautiful, and empowered was almost impossible. So, I decided to create them myself. ✂️💖

Crafting Confidence: Lingerie with a Purpose

Today, I design and make specialised stoma, ostomy lingerie and wraps that are not just functional but also elegant, sexy, and pretty. Every piece is thoughtfully created to help people feel more like themselves again. These aren’t just garments—they’re statements of self-love, empowerment, and beauty.

Supporting Beyond Style: Clinical Hypnotherapy

My journey didn’t stop at designing lingerie. I became a clinical hypnotherapist to support others living with a stoma, ostomy. I understand the mental and emotional hurdles—from anxiety and grief to PTSD—and I’ve made it my mission to help people overcome them. Through hypnotherapy, I guide my clients to rebuild confidence, manage stress, and embrace the incredible lives they deserve.

A Life Worth Celebrating 🎉

Living with a stoma, ostomy doesn’t mean your life is over; it’s the start of a new chapter. My work, whether through fashion or therapy, is all about breaking down the stigma, celebrating our resilience, and showing the world that we can still shine brightly, no matter what.

If my journey resonates with you, I’d love to connect. Whether you’re looking for a little support, a touch of elegance, or just someone who gets it, I’m here for you. Let’s show the world how amazing life with a stoma, ostomy can truly be. 💫

To contact me leave a comment and I will get back to you.