Realistic New Years Resolution List
Does it seem to you that the years fly by faster each year? 2018 was no exception. We get wrapped up in our schedules – work, family, life – and before we know it, the seasons have passed and we’re making holiday plans again with our loved ones.
And how ’bout those New Year’s Resolutions? We proudly proclaim them at the beginning of each year with the best of intentions. We really mean to accomplish them, but nearly all of them fall flat before Spring, sometimes before the end of January.
There are many reasons why this happens. To stick with your resolutions – shall we call them goals? – you must be realistic about them. Here are some tips for creating your Realistic New Year’s Resolutions List you’ll actually keep so that you can celebrate successful change by December.
Creating your Realistic New Years Resolution List
1. Be specific
Often the goals we set (as shown in the picture above) are rather ambiguous and thus it’s hard to measure our success. Saying that you want to lose weight does not present a clear target, whereas defining the amount of weight you want to lose provides a means for measuring progress. Planning to save money is equally fuzzy while setting a specific amount in total or per paycheck can be measured.
2. Set up a reward
Whatever you choose, be it weight loss or quitting smoking or other goals, you’re more likely to make a positive change in your behavior if you have a reward waiting down the line. If your goals are specific, you can set checkpoints along the way and plan small rewards to keep you motivated. Oh, and I recommend you make those rewards unrelated to food. Perhaps treat yourself to a manicure, a massage, or a similar self-care experience.
3. Team up with your friends
Getting together with friends to better yourselves is an excellent way to create new habits. Whether it’s taking a class together at the gym or learning a new craft like painting or pottery, teaming up with your friends will make it much more likely you won’t give up on your goals. Two (or more) are stronger than one!
4. Keep a written record
Writing down your resolutions makes it more concrete in your mind. In fact, starting a journal around your resolutions is highly recommended. You can review your goals and write what you’ve done each day to pursue that goal. Another approach is to record yourself energetically declaring your goals and the results you anticipate with reaching them. Then listen to the recording daily.
5. Dissect your resolutions into tangible goals
Once you have written your resolutions, dissect them into steps to reach the end goal. If your goal is to lose 50 pounds, write down what you’re going to do on a daily basis to get there. Perhaps you commit to 15 minutes of exercise per day to start and then increase it at a checkpoint. You can also commit to swapping out some unhealthy foods or drinks. One step, one choice, at a time will get you to the goal!
6. Share your resolutions
Tell your friends and family about your resolutions in the early days of the new year, both to recruit support and accountability. As it was discovered in the Daniel Plan, change is far more achievable in communities where encouragement and teamwork are available.
Take The Time
Don’t let another year of unresolved resolutions fly by. Sit down and create your realistic New Year’s Resolution List today! Make 2019 your year … it is entirely within your reach! What are you excited about accomplishing in the new year? Hit reply and let me know, I’d love to hear from you.
If one of your goals is to pursue wellness, I would be glad to speak with you briefly about your current situation and how I can help you reach your goal.
