The Fresh Start Effect
Think about it—a new project at work that stirs up excitement, a shift in team dynamics that refreshes the group’s energy, or even relocating to a different office space within the company.
All of these change-based situations have one thing in common: hope.
And it’s that hope that helps them act as catalysts for positive change through new habits, behaviors, and routines.
But why do we feel more motivated to pursue goals and make positive changes at the beginning of a new period?
It turns out that, whether it’s January 1 or the day we turn 40, change becomes new and possible—and it’s all due to the fresh start effect.
What Is “The Fresh Start Effect”?
The fresh start effect is a psychological phenomenon increasingly discussed in larger and larger circles.
In essence, researchers of this phenomenon posit that people are more likely to achieve their goals and make lasting positive changes when they begin at temporal landmarks.
Temporal landmarks, points in time that hold personal importance, could be any number of things. Popular ones are:
+ New Year’s Day
+ The start of a new month or season
+ A milestone birthday
+ A job anniversary
+ Moving to a new home
+ A new school year
+ The start/end of your workweek
The list is endless, and researchers found that the temporal landmark you choose doesn’t matter as much as the potential you feel it holds for breaking from your past and hitting the “restart” button.
The Psychology Behind Why Fresh Starts Can Have Such A Powerful Impact
The power of the fresh start lies in a much-needed mindset shift. On a psychological level, fresh starts create a time-space in which you draw a line between your past and present behavior.
Studies have found that this perceived separation helps people overcome past willpower struggles and gain much-needed optimism for the future.
You are no longer relegated to your past failures and imperfections. By crossing the threshold of a temporal landmark, you have entered a new era.
The new you is more confident, prepared, and determined than ever. By mentally wiping the slate clean, the fresh start effect has sprung into action.
The Secret To Getting Your Best Results With The Fresh Start Effect
One important thing to note: All goals are not created equal.
In one study, researchers investigated various New Year resolutions and their likelihood of success. Part of their analysis involved categorizing the participants’ goals into two basic categories: avoidance-oriented and approach-oriented.
Avoidance-oriented goals focus on slowing, quitting, or preventing “bad habits” you currently have, whereas approach-oriented goals focus on adopting a new, desirable behavior or habit.
For instance, “stop scrolling social media” or “quit added sugar” would be considered avoidance. Conversely, “hold a 5-minute conversation in a new language” or “eat protein and greens with every meal” would be considered goals rooted in approach.
Of course, researchers quickly discovered that participants with approach-oriented goals stuck with them far longer than those who set out to kick bad habits.
After all, it makes total sense.
Doing something new that excites you with possibilities is much more fulfilling than avoiding something you tend to beat yourself up for doing.
How To Apply The Fresh Start Effect To Your Career
- Write it out.
Take a moment to reflect on what has energized and drained you so far this year. Think about which goals and aspirations you feel drawn to achieving—but perhaps have lacked motivation for proper follow-through. Use these aspirations to set your intentions for your fresh start.
Remember: Success with the fresh start effect lies in adopting an aspirational rather than an avoidant approach.
- Select your temporal landmark.
Check out your calendar and note upcoming dates that are important to you. Which excites you the most for its potential as a catalyst for change? It might be a milestone birthday, the start of the new school year, a particular holiday, or even next Monday morning.
- Develop a plan composed of microsteps.
I’m a big believer in the power of small, incremental changes. Significant change can happen in new habits that take as little as 5 minutes daily. Choose which new habits or routines you’ll be incorporating and set a reasonable goal for beginning on your pre-selected fresh start date.
Bonus tip: I recently discovered the Routinery app, and I love how it helps me track how much time I spend on my new habits and routines!
- Cultivate a growth mindset.
Change begins in the mind. Embrace the positive aspects of growth, stay open to new opportunities, and release what no longer serves you.
- Find an accountability group to keep you motivated.
A celebratory and delightful career-oriented community can help you stay focused and committed to your intentions.
Look for a group like The Gathering Ground, where members celebrate each other’s successes, big and small, and offer encouragement in pursuing new ideas and career paths.
How Flourish Careers Can Help
Since you found me, you’re likely considering a change.
As a career coach and consultant, I’ve had the honor of helping thousands of professionals worldwide find the places and positions where they can truly flourish—and I can help you, too.
When we work together, I’ll help you cultivate your own fresh start—for growing success.
So, let’s chat. I’m here to help.
