A new year gives us a chance to start afresh. We open a new chapter and try to bring changes in our lives that can lead to a bright and optimistic future. No wonder so many people make new year’s resolutions to be a better version of themselves. Whether it is losing weight, getting out of debt, improving their health or earning that long-standing promotion, we all set goals for ourselves at the start of every year.
However, after a few months, most of us tend to forget about the promises we made to ourselves. We return to our normal lives, repeating the same old behaviours that we wanted to get rid of in the first place. According to US News & World Report, about 80 percent of people who make resolutions drop them by the second week of February. This is certainly discouraging and makes you wonder why people make resolutions at all if they don’t intend to follow through?
The thing is those who give up on their pursuit set vague goals, rarely track their progress, and have unreasonable expectations of themselves. On the other hand, those who successfully pursue their goals have a different approach to their targets. They know the changes they want to bring into their lives and how to go about it. They are clear and determined. This is what separates them from others. If you are planning to set a few resolutions yourself, here are a few tips that can help you beat the odds and keep them.
Be realistic
The first rule of keeping a new year’s resolution is to set realistic and achievable goals. Avoid making resolutions that sound great but are difficult to accomplish. Don’t set vague targets like increasing your happiness or becoming healthier. Set measurable goals that you’ll enjoy pursuing. For instance, if you wish to become healthy, your goal can be going to a gym three times a week. Or if you want to try new things—learn a new language or a skill—create a list of activities you want to participate in. And make sure to add goals that you are interested to achieve and can make time off your daily schedule.
Plan in advance
Don’t wait until the last minute to set your new year’s resolution. Think ahead and plan how you intend to achieve your goals in the coming months. If you don’t, chances are you will come across obstacles that would easily derail you from your path. Planning keeps you prepared for the challenges that you may face in future. At the same time, your goals will have more meaning as you would have calculated the risk and reward factors, and the time you need to dedicate to this endeavour.
Consider being realistic about your goals, plan in advance, focus on one goal at a time, make your resolutions public, and avoiding being too hard on yourself.
Being realistic about your goals increases the likelihood of success. Setting achievable goals helps you maintain motivation and prevents feelings of frustration.
Sharing your resolutions with others creates a sense of accountability and support. When friends and family know about your goals, they can offer encouragement and help you stay on track.
Comments