Yes, it's that time of year again. Time for change, time for promises, time for fulfillment. But do you remember what last year's resolution was? If not, chances are you didn't stick to your resolution, and even if you do remember, chances are still high you didn't stick to it.
Why does it seem so easy to fail when the new year seems so promising? Unrealistic expectations and lack of self-discipline are two major reasons.
Make a Specific New Year's Resolution
When deciding on a new year's resolution, never make a vague one like "I want to be nicer" or "I want to be healthier." These are too easy to mess up since there's no real way to measure successes and failures.
Instead, try making specific resolutions. Just be sure not to make impossible ones, keeping in mind you're trying to keep up the resolution for the year, not just a week or two. Instead of "I want to be nicer," try "I want to compliment somebody every day." Instead of "I want to be healthier," try "I want to only have one soda a week."
Limit the Number of Resolutions You Make
Best to succeed at one thing than fail at many. Making multiple resolutions will increase your stress while trying to fulfill each individual goal. You're likely to give up on all the resolutions instead of completing even one. Try to make one simple, attainable goal that would make a difference in your life by the next new year.
Gain the Support and Encouragement of those around You
It's always easier to find a buddy to be accountable to. If possible, tell family and friends what your new year's resolution is so they can help encourage you. If you do not wish to share your resolution, try finding an anonymous group in your city or online so you'll have a supportive community when you slip or succeed.
Set Mini Goals along the Way to Reward Successes
Remember that you want to encourage yourself to succeed. Set markers and small rewards along the way to your ultimate goal, but remember to reward yourself with something that won't counter your goal. If you're trying to quit smoking, don't reward yourself with anything tobacco-related. Instead buy yourself that new iPod you've been eying.
Form New Habits to Help Make Your Resolution a Reality
If your goal is to lose a pound a week, try changing a few things in your life to instill good habits. Instead of a weekly lunch with a friend, try a tennis date. Trade the boxes of crackers and bags of chips for individually portioned ones. Chew gum during the appetizer portion of a party or meal. By forming new habits, you turn the resolution into routine, making it easier to carry on throughout the year.
Remember to make realistic resolutions, gain the support of loved ones, reward successes, and instill good habits to make this the year you'll meet that resolution. Best of luck, and Happy New Year!
Megan B. Wyatt - Megan B. Wyatt has a BA in English, edits fiction manuscripts and currently works as an entertainment reporter in Lafayette, Louisiana.
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