Psychology underpins everything we do, determining the decisions we make, the relationships we build, the roles we play and the places we live, and our behaviour is further influenced by the changing seasons, encouraging many of us to fall into unhelpful patterns again and again each year. The book provides readers with a structured year-long program, incorporating evidence-based principles and practices to transform their mental health. January (new beginnings), March (your environment) and November (rest and JOMO - the joy of missing out) really resonated with me, particularly as it was cold outside as I read this. Self-forgiveness: Acknowledge past mistakes and work towards forgiving yourself to release emotional burdens.

Not only do the book’s modest claims make it likable, but the fact that it isn’t trying to sell you some pumped-up, perfect version of yourself has the effect of making it seem trustworthy too.Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, reinforcing your commitment to your purpose.

I really enjoyed this read which is set out in 12 different themes addressing challenges we face in each month of the year. Side note: I don't understand why this book isn't more popular/talked about/has more ratings on Goodreads? Breathing exercises: Practice deep breathing techniques to calm your nervous system during moments of stress. Perhaps the most comforting – and discomfiting – thing about this book is that it sketches a world of pain and injustice in which it’s nonetheless possible to enjoy life. Meaningful goals: Set specific, achievable goals that align with your values and contribute to your sense of purpose.

We perhaps turn to psychology in the hope of being surprised out of the furrows in which our habitual thinking can get stuck. Empathy and understanding: Put yourself in the shoes of others to cultivate empathy and understanding, facilitating forgiveness. Resilient role models: Seek inspiration from individuals who have overcome adversity and learn from their experiences. Professional support: Consult a mental health professional to learn personalized coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety. genuinely useful, charming, comforting' - Guardian 'Compelling, warm and authoritative' - Viv Groskop, bestselling author of Lift As You Climb 'A compassionate book filled with useful tips to help us through life' - Claudia Hammond, bestselling author of The Key to Kindness Help yourself to live a better life in 2023 Psychology underpins everything we do, determining the decisions we make, the relationships we build, the roles we play and the places we live, and our behaviour is further influenced by the changing seasons, encouraging many of us to fall into unhelpful patterns again and again each year.

Savoring moments: Take a moment to appreciate and savor positive experiences to enhance positive emotions. Supportive self-talk: Provide yourself with the support and encouragement you would offer a friend in challenging times.

Challenging self-criticism: Identify self-critical thoughts and challenge them with self-compassionate alternatives. Consultant clinical psychologist Dr Lucy Maddox explains how psychological processes thread through our lives, pinpointing those issues most frequently encountered in each month, and shows us how by reflecting upon past experiences, both joyful and painful, and considering evidence-based ideas from the realm of psychology, we can learn to live a more thoughtful, positive life that better prepares us for the future. If I have a criticism of the book, it’s that it contains little of the counterintuitive thinking that makes psychology not only exciting but potentially more useful than a chat with a sensible friend. Take it one step at a time, and don't forget to be compassionate towards yourself throughout the journey.

Remember that change takes time, and progress may be gradual, but with dedication and consistent practice, you can improve your mental health and lead a more fulfilling life. Calmer more experienced minds will be aware of these techniques but they are in a perfect package for a young person. This review will break down the main principles outlined in each chapter, offering an actionable checklist to incorporate these recommendations into your daily routine for a happier, healthier mind. In A YEAR TO CHANGE YOUR MIND, consultant clinical psychologist Dr Lucy Maddox explains how psychological processes thread through our lives, pinpointing those issues most frequently encountered in each month, and shows us how by reflecting upon past experiences, both joyful and painful, and considering evidence-based ideas from the realm of psychology, we can learn to live a more thoughtful, positive life that better prepares us for the future.

Flexibility and adaptation: Practice flexibility by adjusting to changes in plans or routines without undue stress.