Are New Year's Resolutions Helpful in the Disability Community?

For many people, January brings a sudden desire to "fix" oneself. Quit that bad habit once and for all, lose some weight, and through one channel or another become a better version of yourself. 

Forbes Magazine published an excellent article by disability blogger Andrew Pulrang on this topic. Entitled 2023 New Year's Resolutions for People with Disabilities, the author reminds readers that it is essential for all resolutions to be made in the spirit of authentic self-kindness, as well as important to the person making them, not imposed by others.

While this might seem like obvious advice, the author takes things a step farther by suggesting people look outward for their resolutions and make a resolution that addresses systemic failures and inadequacies that hold people with disabilities back from being the best version of themselves.

Here is where people who don't experience disabilities personally can step in, too! We love the idea of turning the concept of a New Year's Resolution back on its head and directing change toward the systems that most limit quality of life for the millions of Americans who experience a disability. For example, someone could resolve to no longer ignore accessibility barriers they come across. If the elevator in your building is always out of service, say something! If there is no curb cut in front of your office, ask that something be done about that.

We'd love to hear some more ideas!