How to Stop Chasing Goals and Start BEING the Goal
Dec 31, 2024
End of year exhaustion or silent momentum?
JANUARY 1st, 2025
Each month, I’ll share neuroscience for your mind, medicine for your body, and somatics for your soul. Let’s cut through the noise as I tell you the truth about stress—and how to turn it into your greatest ally.
Your monthly practice
Happy New Year! For some it is happy, for others it is triggering and for a lot of us it is much the same. Wherever you are on this spectrum, it can be a time for self reflection. Resolutions, "new year new you" are familiar themes, but how effective are they? Every year I have multiple rituals and one of them is going through my schedule noting down the challenges, wins, and "auditing" my beliefs, behaviours and asking the question: does my schedule reflect my values?
1. NEUROSCIENCE
Identity change starts in the brain. Neuroplasticity—your brain’s ability to rewire itself—is activated through repetition and emotional intensity. When you shift focus from external goals to internal identity, you’re engaging your brain’s default mode network (DMN), which is responsible for self-referential thinking and imagination.
Here’s the key: Visualisation paired with emotion strengthens neural pathways faster than mere repetition. When you imagine yourself being a calmer, healthier, or more confident person, the DMN collaborates with the prefrontal cortex to turn that vision into a guide for action. This isn’t “fake it till you make it”—it’s aligning your brain with your future self.
2. BODY TALK
-
Sit quietly and close your eyes. Take three deep breaths to settle into your body. Imagine your future self who has fully stepped into the identity you desire. What does their body feel like? How do they stand, breathe, and move? Begin to embody that version of you now. Sit taller, breathe deeper, soften any tension, and move with intention. Let the feelings of this identity—confidence, peace, strength—wash over you. Carry these sensations throughout your day.
-
Reflect on a single word that represents your desired identity. Is it "peaceful," "resilient," "powerful," or "authentic"? Use this word as your compass. Write it down where you can see it daily—a mirror, journal, or phone screen.
3. SOULFUL CONNECTION
Journal or reflect on:
-
Who do I want to BE this year? What values, emotions, and behaviors align with this identity?
-
How can I embody this version of myself today, even in the smallest ways?
-
What identities or beliefs no longer serve me? What am I ready to let go of?
Next Step
Ready to experience the power of your breath? Discover how it can calm your mind, heal your body, and awaken your potential—join our next breathwork session by clicking here.
Called to go deeper?
As you reflect on what’s holding you back or what’s calling you forward, remember this: transformation starts with one small step. I’m here to guide you as you turn stress into strength and reclaim your power.
If you’re ready to go deeper, let’s connect. Whether it’s through a breathwork session, a personalised plan, or a conversation about what’s next for you, I’m here to help you succeed.
Click here to book a call or reply to this email. An updated events schedule can be found here.
With Love,
Dr. Safia
Coach | Breathwork Facilitator | Doctor | Speaker
Bsc MBBS DCH DRCOG MRCGP MPH DipOccMed
