It’s January – that time when “New Year, New You” messages are everywhere. The gyms are full, the adverts are loud, and the pressure can feel relentless. And with the cold, dark mornings and that post-Christmas sluggishness, it’s completely normal to feel like an old mindset is creeping in.
But here’s the thing: at Slimpod, we don’t do “New Me.” We say: New Year, Same Fabulous Me.
Because you don’t need to become someone else. You’re already enough. January isn’t about fixing yourself ( because you do not need fixing) it’s about building on what’s working. And this is the perfect moment to refresh your goals, in a way that your brain will actually go along with – without the rebellion that diets so often trigger.
Let’s Talk About Goals (The Kind That Won’t Make You Miserable)
Now, I know the word “goal” can bring up all sorts of feelings. Maybe you’re thinking of rigid rules, calorie counting, or setting yourself up for failure… again. But the kind of goals we’re talking about are nothing like that.
These are small, positive, achievable nudges that work with your subconscious, not against it. They help you gently move in the direction of lasting change – without pressure, guilt, or shame.
This is where your brain’s hidden superpower comes in – the Reticular Activating System, or RAS.
Meet Your Brain’s Goal-Seeking Superpower
One of the most fascinating things in your brain is something called the RAS – short for Reticular Activating System. It’s a clever part of the brain that acts a bit like a personal assistant, constantly scanning the world and deciding what you should pay attention to.
You’re surrounded by endless noise, distractions, and information every single day – but your brain can’t process it all. So the RAS filters it based on what it thinks matters to you. And here’s the key, it only knows what matters because of the messages you’ve been feeding it.
It’s why when you decide to buy a red car, you suddenly see red cars everywhere. It’s not a coincidence, it’s your brain spotlighting what it’s been told is important.
Now imagine telling your brain that eating well, moving more, or feeling confident is important to you. Your RAS will start guiding you towards opportunities, choices and thoughts that support that.
Why the RAS Matters for Weight Loss and Wellbeing
Your subconscious mind is always working behind the scenes. It’s responsible for your habits, your emotional reactions, and even those deep-rooted beliefs about what you can and can’t do.
If your subconscious has been wired for years to believe “I can’t lose weight” or “I always fail,” then your RAS will filter the world to prove you right – even if, logically, you know better.
But here’s the good news: the RAS is very adaptable. You can retrain it. You can guide it to help you see the opportunities, tools, and wins that move you closer to your goals. And that’s exactly what Slimpod helps you do.
Simple Ways to Start Reprogramming Your RAS Today
This doesn’t need to be hard. In fact, it mustn’t be hard – or your brain will push back. Here are a few simple things you can start doing right away:
- Write down your goals – and keep them small and achievable.
Write specific goals, using the smart - Stick them somewhere visible.
The fridge, your mirror, your phone background – anywhere your brain will see them often. - Use present tense affirmations.
Say things like “I am making healthier choices,” not “I want to.” This tells your RAS it’s already happening. - Visualise your success.
Imagine how you’ll feel and what life will be like when you reach your goals. Vivid pictures are like rocket fuel for your RAS.
5. Celebrate small wins.
Write down three little wins each day. This reinforces progress and keeps your subconscious focused on success.
Your Brain Is Listening – So Let’s Give It the Right Message
What you focus on grows. If you keep telling yourself you can’t do it, your RAS will believe you. But if you start shifting the script – even just a little – you’ll begin to notice changes.
And remember: this isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. About showing up for yourself, gently, day by day.
Want to Dive Deeper?
This blog article just scratches the surface. If you want to learn exactly how to train your RAS to become your brain’s built-in goal-seeking missile, you’ll love my Sunday Times bestselling book, The Weight’s Over.
It’s full of science-backed tools and real-life stories to help you take back control of your mind, your body, and your future.
You can discover more and get your copy at theweightsover.co.uk
Let’s make this January about feeling good – not about punishment or pressure. You don’t need a new you. Just a reminder of how capable, brilliant and resilient you already are.
New Year. Same fabulous you.
