Sticking to New Year’s Resolutions
The beginning of a new year also invites the beginnings of New Year’s Resolutions which, honestly, many do not fulfill. But, if you want this year to be your year, here are some tips on how to stay dedicated to your New Year’s Resolutions!
Proper Mindset and Accountability
Realistically, fulfilling your resolutions will be near impossible if you don’t act like you want them. Developing a proper mindset of dedicating time and energy to your resolutions while holding yourself accountable for your actions is essential for completing any goal, especially yearly goals that are outside your comfort zone. Even if you have to force yourself into habits, remember the end goal you are working towards.
Ex. Instead of “Choosing the more healthy options is such a hassle.”, think “Healthy options are more beneficial for me in the long run and I want to stay true to my commitment.”
Relevant and Realistic Resolutions
It is important to consider personal relevance and reality when creating your New Year’s Resolutions. These resolutions are initially intended to be personal goals for the new year. When they align with your personal preferences, they become easier to fulfill and incorporate into your everyday routine. Choosing a goal within your physical and mental capacities also prevents burnout and harm.
Ex. Resolving to drink more water can be easier if you purchase and have a water bottle on hand with you most of the time, especially during outings, such as school, the mall, etc.
Measurable Resolutions
Measurable resolutions help provide a physical representation of your goal, making it easier to track your progress. This can affect your mood, specifically after a long period. Seeing a visual representation of how much you’ve done can inspire you to keep persevering!
Ex. Making it a goal to have at least 1,000 steps per day is much easier to keep tabs on than having a goal to “walk more”.
Timely Resolutions
Introducing a deadline can create a sense of urgency in your resolution, making you more self-aware of your actions when working towards your goal. Though not ideal, deadlines can be the motivation needed to start developing self-accountability.
Ex. Scheduling your license permit test can motivate you to study for it, which is especially useful if it’s been a task that’s been pushed back.
Understanding Adaptability
Change is difficult and it’s important to acknowledge that. Acknowledging the difficulty of a resolution is not a reason to stop working towards it, but a sign to adapt. Even if your resolutions are too difficult, adapting them may make it easier to follow and finish.
Ex. Downgrading from running a mile every day to running a mile once a week.
Believe in yourself and take charge of your year!
Comments