The beginning of a new year is an opportunity for a fresh, new start. There’s no better way to make changes than to set New Year’s resolutions. Resolutions can present great opportunities for success but sometimes may lead to biting off more than you can chew. So what can you do to make it more likely to keep your New Year’s resolutions? Here are some tips for success in keeping yourself focused on your goals.
#1- Keep your Resolution Realistic: Every year, millions of people resolve to lose weight or get into shape during the next year. Instead of using broad terms that mean nothing, set small, attainable goals that you can measure. For example instead of “getting into shape” set a goal of going to the gym 3 times a week. That is a much more specific and attainable goal and will help set you up for success in the long term.
#2- Start with One Resolution: While you might have a long list of potential New Year’s resolutions, we suggest you pick one. This way you can focus all your energies on one goal rather than spread yourself too thin. Taking on too much all at once can be daunting. Focusing your efforts on one specific goal will make keeping a resolution much more achievable.
#3- Remember that change takes time: Those unhealthy habits that you are trying to change probably took years to develop, so how can you expect to change them in just a matter of days? It may take longer than you would like, but remember that this is not a race. Once you have committed to change, it is something that you will continue to work on for the rest of your life. Give yourself some grace and take it a day at a time.
#4-Get Support from Friends and Family: Being accountable when setting goals makes you much more likely to achieve success. Explain what your goals are to close friends or family and ask them to help you. Better yet, enlist the help of others by joining a group that shares your goals.
#5- Reward Yourself: Be sure you reward yourself as you hit milestones along the way. For example, if you want to lose 30 pounds, treat yourself to a mani/pedi or a movie after the first 10 pounds are achieved. Setting small goals within your larger goal and rewarding yourself along the way will keep you motivated and help you reach success in no time.
#6- Don’t let small stumbles tear you down: Encountering a setback is one of the most common reasons why people give up on their New Year’s Resolutions. If you suddenly relapse into a bad habit, don’t view it as a failure. The path toward your goal is not a straight one and there will always be challenges. Instead, view relapses as learning opportunities. Try keeping a resolution journal and write down important information when working through a relapse. By understanding the challenges you face, you will be better prepared to deal with them in the future.
Setting New Year’s resolutions can be a great way to achieve new goals. Following these great tips will help keep you motivated and set you up for success. Happy New Year everyone and may you have a prosperous, safe, and healthy New Year!
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