Have you ever wondered why traditional New Year’s resolutions often fade by February? The answer might lie in your brain chemistry.
At ChiKobi Health, I’ve been exploring how our SODE neurochemicals—Serotonin, Oxytocin, Dopamine, and Endorphins—influence our ability to create lasting change through intentional living rather than fleeting resolutions.
From Resolution to Intention: My Personal Journey
For 2024, I replaced the typical resolution list with a single, powerful intention that I keep top of mind daily: “Accept reality, get over it, and move on.”
This three-part intention has transformed my approach to both personal and business challenges:
- Accept reality (activates Serotonin) – I strive to confront situations objectively, acknowledging scientific evidence and considering all perspectives without my personal filter. This perspective naturally triggers serotonin release, our mood-stabilizing neurochemical.
- Get over it (triggers Dopamine) – Consciously deciding whether I’m going to emotionally commit to truth or denial. When I choose to move forward rather than resist, my brain rewards this decision with dopamine, reinforcing this positive pattern.
- Move on (produces Endorphins) – Taking action, even if I’m not guaranteed a perfect outcome, generates natural endorphins that help overcome the discomfort of change. This “natural high” makes the process of moving forward rewarding.
Compounding Intentions for 2025
Building on last year’s foundation, my 2025 intention adds another dimension: “Call myself out. Call others out. Then see the outcome where we land – good or bad.”
Here’s what I’ve learned so far:
Avoiding hard conversations lead to shame, guilt, and resentment.
Oxytocin Connection: When we confront authentic conversations or awkward truths early, our brain releases Oxytocin; the bonding hormone. It gives us a chance to rebuild connections – sometimes even stronger than before.
It’s not about conflict for the sake of it. It’s about the truth in the room. Even if the conversation is a 3-hour tangle, it’s still progress.
Research shows that even if the result is pain or distance, you feel more dopamine from knowing you acted with clarity. The momentary discomfort is outweighed by the release that follows honest exchange.
Listening as a Wellness Practice
Part of my 2025 intention involves recommitting to active listening.
Here’s the twist: calling things out isn’t just about speaking—it’s about listening. Really listening.
In a world obsessed with brevity, bullet points, and “getting to the point,” we’ve forgotten that humans communicate their truth in messy, roundabout ways.
Letting someone “ramble” might actually be the most emotionally intelligent thing we do. Our mirror neurons and subconscious are constantly picking up on tone, facial cues, and intentions—even when the words aren’t precise.
Post-pandemic, we need to relearn the skill of holding space:
- Listening without interrupting.
- Letting people get it all out.
- Letting ourselves do the same.
You might be surprised by what you hear—both in others and in yourself. The neurochemical rewards of this practice make it worth the effort.
SODE in Action: Small Acts, Big Chemistry
How might this approach benefit your preventative health journey? Try this as a micro-intention this week:
- Serotonin: Own your truth—say the hard thing (even to yourself).
- Oxytocin: Invite someone to talk without rushing them.
- Dopamine: Track the little wins that come from difficult conversations.
- Endorphins: Laugh at yourself when it all feels awkward—it’s still growth.
Final Thought
As we continue to move through 2025, I invite you to keep thinking deeply, listening fully, and staying grounded in your values.
Remember, preventative health isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about creating a sustainable mindset where small, intentional actions today prevent big problems tomorrow.
What intention might guide your next chapter?
