Metro Manila, Philippines – As Filipinos welcome 2026, a psychologist encourages people to veer away from the pressure-packed thinking of a “new me” and instead focus on small, meaningful wins and self-compassion, saying personal growth does not have to be dramatic to be real.
Rainier Ladic said setting intentions at the beginning of the year remains valuable because people naturally look forward to positive change. Growth, he added, has psychological benefits – boosts productivity, reinforces motivation, and gives individuals a sense that they are moving forward.
“Napakahalaga po nito kasi of course we always look forward for those good changes,” Ladic said.
[Translation: This is very important because we naturally look forward to positive changes.]
He said disappointment often follows when people fail to meet the version of themselves they imagined at the beginning of the year; and that managing frustrations begins with acknowledging emotions rather than suppressing them.
“Okay lang po na hayaan muna natin yung sarili natin na ma-disappoint at makaramdam ng lungkot,” he said.
[Translation: It’s okay to allow ourselves to feel disappointed and sad.”]
What matters, he explained, is not staying stuck in those emotions. After sitting with them, people should stand back up, reassess, and create a realistic plan. Setting achievable goals – especially small ones – help rebuild confidence and momentum.
“Kapag sinet natin yung goals natin, kailangan achievable muna siya. Yung simple muna,” Ladic said.
[Translation: When we set our goals, they need to be achievable first—start with something simple.]
He said small successes create a sense of reinforcement. Once people see they can complete one task, they become more motivated to take on others. He said kindness to oneself is crucial.
Ladic also pushed back against the belief that a better year must come with big, visible achievements.
“Minsan iniisip natin na para maging mas maganda ang taon, kailangan malaki o materyal,” he said.
[Translation: Sometimes we think the year has to improve through something big or material.]
In reality, he said, personal growth often comes in small packages. With many still carrying the emotional weight of last year’s challenges and ongoing social frustrations, Ladic said improvements in 2026 begin with regaining a sense of personal control.
“Kapag may sense of control tayo sa sarili natin, nababawasan yung anxiety,” he said.
[Translation: When we regain a sense of control over ourselves, anxiety lessens.]
Once a person feel steadier, he said, they are better equipped to help others, whether by supporting family and friends or doing volunteer work, creating experiences that contribute to
Ladic explained that progress requires effort, patience, and gradual steps.
Sometimes, he said, those steps can be as simple as making the bed in the morning.
“Kapag may nagawa tayong isang bagay, naiisip natin na may kaya pa tayong gawin,” Ladic said.
[Translation: When we accomplish one small thing, we realize we can do more.]
