For just about everyone, the New Year means the chance to start over and make some changes to improve the year ahead. Some people resolve to lose weight or stick to a diet plan. Some people resolve to learn something new, like another language or how to knit. Still others hope to kick unhealthy habits like smoking or compulsive shopping.
Unfortunately, whatever the New Year’s resolution, most people give up within a a few months, but by following a few simple tips, keeping your resolutions can become a lot easier.
Be realistic
It may seem like a no-brainer, but setting the bar too high is just setting yourself up for failure. Instead, keep goals simple and attainable to increase your chance of sticking to them. For example, instead of declaring that you resolve to lose 30 pounds in one month, aim instead for a 10-pound weight loss goal over the span of a few months. This will keep you more motivated to achieve a goal that is within your reach.
Start off small
Once you’ve identified resolutions that are realistic, take the next step and identify ways that you can go about achieving your goals. For instance, if one of your resolutions is to save up a certain amount of money by the end of the year, start by creating a tentative budget for yourself and begin to determine small ways to help you achieve your goal, such as cutting spending in certain areas. Once you’ve started to take small steps toward your goal, your resolution becomes a lot easier to maintain.
Make your mark
Be sure to write down any and all resolutions to have a daily visual reminder of what you hope to accomplish for the year. If it helps, create a positive message board for yourself to keep track of any accomplishments, however small, along the way.
Spread the word
Although there is some truth to the idea that your New Year’s resolutions should be kept to yourself, it is often much better to tell your resolutions to close, trusted people in your life. Once more people know about your goal to move to another city by the middle of the year, for instance, it becomes easier to establish a support group that can keep you accountable and motivate you to achieve your resolution.
Treat yourself (in moderation!)
Sometimes, sticking to your resolutions can prove to be quite challenging. That’s why, when you pass on purchasing that ultra-expensive handbag you’ve been eyeing in favor of sticking to your budget, treating yourself to something smaller will make sticking to your resolutions that much easier next time.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / mamanamsai
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