From New Year Pressure to Cheering Self-Permission: Overcoming Saboteurs -140

Is it possible to truly stick to your New Year’s resolutions? This week, The Grit Show spotlights why big changes feel impossible at the start of every year. Shawna Rodrigues and Dr. Kelly Hamilton, a specialist in organizational psychology, reveal the science of the “fresh start effect,” explore hidden competing agreements, and introduce the Positive Intelligence Framework. These tools help listeners identify why their inner perfectionist, people pleaser, or rebel might be running the show—and what realistic steps can be taken to make real change.

Curious about habit formation and how self-compassion fits in? Tune in for motivational tactics, expert insight, and a fresh perspective that could shake up your approach to personal development and goal setting.

Kelly Hamilton, PhD, is an executive coach, consultant, and organizational psychologist who helps leaders deepen self-awareness so they can lead with greater courage, creativity, and resilience. His coaching blends psychological science with real-world experience, giving clients both the insight and the practical tools to navigate growth, transition, and complexity with more confidence. He works with values-driven leaders who want to grow with intention and lead with greater authenticity and impact.

Before becoming an organizational psychologist, Kelly spent 15 years co-founding and leading media and marketing firms—bringing a pragmatic, entrepreneurial edge to his evidence-based consulting. His research on inclusive leadership and the workplace experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals has been recognized by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP).

Kelly earned his PhD in industrial-organizational psychology from Portland State University and has completed advanced training in the Co-Active coaching model.

Learn more about Kelly:

Instagram: @kellyhamiltonphd

LinkedIn: Kelly Hamilton, PhD

Substack: @kellyhamiltonphd

Interested in taking an assessment on your saboteurs? Find the link in Dr. Hamilton’s Substack Article

Here's the link to the episodes Shawna mentioned:

Episode 31 - with Gin Stephens Intermittent Fasting

Episode 125- with Will Halpin - IFS

Shawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact.

She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.

Connect with her journey:

Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: