If you are the type of person who calls it quits on your resolutions two weeks into the New Year, then this post is for you! According to recent research, only 10 percent of people feel that their New Year’s resolutions will actually last. “I treat goals like a project I need to complete. There are usually multiple steps in every project and you have to complete one step at a time.” says Lauren George Certified Barre & Pilates Instructor.
The biggest challenge going into the new year is the overall interpretation of resolutions. “I always tell people to shift their perception and energy about New Year’s Resolutions. Instead of focusing on what you can’t eat if you are giving up sugar , thinking about all the new recipes you can try. Instead of fighting the urge of watching tv, think of new ways or activities to spend your evenings,” explains Whitely Miller of Healing Barre.
If you have gotten accustomed to always abandoning your goals it might be time to switch things up. Here are three tips to help make your resolutions stick this upcoming year.
1. Put pen to paper
You are more likely to complete a goal if you write it down. Actually you are 42 percent more likely to achieve a goal if you journal it regularly. It’s just how our brains work! If journaling is new for you, opt for options that will encourage you to actually write it down. Maybe stick to a smaller notebook you can stick into your purse or back pocket. If you are looking for accountability try setting on alarm on your phone to help to keep you motivated.
2. Start out small
Creating an extremely large goal is definitely NOT a good idea. However creating a large goal broken down into steps is a less stressful approach for anything you are hoping to achieve for yourself in the new year. George gives a perfect example of this: she says: “Each week, I write out the steps I need to complete that week to work towards my goal. That may be scheduling my workouts or meditations for the week, writing out how much money I want to save each week, or writing out my menu for the week on Sunday night. Then I just have to focus on accomplishing those “projects for the week and it moves me that much closer to my goal.” Take a moment to look at your goal and map out the items you can do immediately and then from there figure out parts of your goal that will take a little longer. Consider yourself a project manager of your own life!
3. Honor your wins
Take the time to honor your wins big and small. The more you do this the more encouraged you will be to keep up with your new habits and ideally create new ones along the way.
Jessia DeLuise, MHS, PA-C, CCMS reminds her clients that as children are learning to walk they fall and get back up. This rule can also be applied to setting resolutions “We have to stop giving up because one thing didn’t go our way and reassess and see what’s working and what’s not working. Then move forward in a different way.” says DeLuise
How will you approach your goals for the new year? Think of these intentions you are setting for yourself as lifestyle changes and not quick fixes. Put the previous years of failed resolutions in your rearview mirror and approach this new year with a new outlook on your goals.
