The start of a new year is often framed as a time for reinvention. Messages about becoming “better,” “more disciplined,” or “finally fixing yourself” are everywhere, especially when it comes to food, bodies, productivity, and mental health. For many people, this pressure doesn’t feel motivating at all. It feels heavy, shame-filled, and exhausting. As a mental health practice, we want to offer a different invitation for the new year: you do not need to become someone new in or