As we wrap up the year, many of us are reflecting on the year that was and thinking about what to improve next year. We acknowledge that after a long year of working on our goals, whether we accomplished them or not, taking the time to rest and enjoy the festivities is much needed. We finally get the opportunity to go for days on end without worrying too much about the pressures of living in a fast paced society. Some of us are getting to enjoy the support and warmth of family while others are spending some alone time to unwind and relax. But regardless of what we’re up to, we know that January is coming and we hope to start the year on a high note.
Perhaps you have some flaws that you’ve been planning to work on, but for some reason, you’ve never gotten around to it. Maybe you feel stuck at work and need some support in attaining productivity and thriving in your career. Or it could be that you’re dealing with the trauma of numerous “failed” past relationships and it’s affecting the way you’re showing up in your current relationship. Possibly, you’ve been dealing with the effects of a mental condition that you feel is limiting you. Whatever the case, you might be considering therapy, but you’re just not sure if this is the right time to start. So that brings us to the question: why should you start therapy in January?
1. Therapists’ Availability
As the year ends, some clients complete their therapy sessions, giving room for new slots. At the same time, some therapists are setting their goals for the new year, which may include taking on more clients. Just ensure you book early to avoid inconveniences because even though many therapists are taking on new clients, the demand for therapy is high in January, so slots are likely to fill up quicker.
2. Fresh Start Effect
Many people view a new year as an opportunity to start over. This often involves setting new goals for the new year or refining the goals they had in the previous year. There is often a collective mood to do better in various aspects of our lives in the coming year. Therapy offers a supportive avenue for you to gain clarity early on and work on the factors that are likely to derail your progress. This significantly enhances your chances of having a successful year and prevents burnout.
3. Consistency
Starting therapy in January gives you 12 consecutive months to implement your therapy goals for the year and evaluate your progress without feeling the pressure of setting new ones in a few months time. You get to grow and heal at your pace and have more room to evaluate and refine your goals when necessary. You’re able to celebrate your wins and even create new goals once you accomplish the previous ones. In contrast, if you start therapy late, you may subconsciously or unconsciously feel immense pressure to rush through everything so you don’t get into the new year with the challenges of the previous year.
Conclusion
January is one of the best months to begin therapy because it offers numerous advantages. It’s like getting on a slide at the top as opposed to the middle. The landing feels timely and more relaxed. You also tend to experience a feeling of completion and satisfaction. The slide down does not feel rushed and short, making your experience more wholesome.
If you need to book a therapy session with me, use this link: https://unboundmindtherapyandwellness.co.ke/book-a-session/ or reach out to me directly via call or WhatsApp using the number on the Contact Us page.
I wish you all happy holidays and an amazing new year.