Why “New Year, New You” Is Just Diet Culture in Disguise

The Hidden Diet Culture Behind the Slogan

“New Year, New You” seems harmless, but it often sends a deeper message:
Your current self isn’t enough.

And the “fix”?
Lose weight. Shrink. Control. Restrict.

These messages aren’t self-improvement, they’re self-rejection.

Why Weight-Based Resolutions Don’t Work

Resolutions rooted in body shame create:

• Guilt

• All-or-nothing thinking

• Rebound bingeing

• Exhaustion

• Lower self-esteem

They lead to more self-punishment,  not more self-care.

What Actually Supports Change: Intention, Not Punishment

1. Set Behavior-Based Goals

Instead of “lose weight,” try:

• “I want to honor my hunger cues.”

• “I want to rest when I’m tired.”

• “I want to move in ways that feel good.”
  
  

2. Focus on Feelings, Not Numbers

Ask:
“How do I want to feel in 2026?”
Grounded? Connected? Energized? Nourished?

3. Choose Values Over Aesthetics

Values-based living is sustainable.
Weight-based living isn’t.

Final Thoughts

Diet culture sells you a “new you.”
Healing teaches you to come home to yourself.

You don’t need a new body.
You need a new way of relating to your body.

Want help setting compassionate New Year intentions?

Contact me to discuss ways we can work together!