It is that time again – New Year Resolutions!
First let’s explore some of the most common ones we hear.
- Exercise More
- Save More Money
- Pursue A Career Ambition
- Quit Smoking
- Renovate My Home
- Learn A New Skill or Hobby
- Do Some Volunteer Work
- Spend More Time With Family And Friends
While all of these are great ambitions and very doable, a large percentage of people do not maintain them for the entire year.
Studies suggest that it can take several months into a year to truly integrate a new year’s resolution into your lifestyle, depending on the goal and the time you need to commit to achieve it.
Does that mean new year’s resolutions should not be made?? NO! But some realistic planning and common sense needs to be part of your goal. Let’s explore some of those.
- Do not set overly ambitious goals. They may sound good when you talk about them, but they are usually the ones people abandon pretty quickly.
- Focus on the goal by taking consistent action over time to achieve it.
- If it is a large goal, break it up into smaller, more manageable steps. You are more likely to succeed that way.
- Share your goals with your spouse or a trusted friend or family member. They can help you stay motivated and on track.
- Use tracking tools, books, videos or whatever will help you stay on course and be successful.
Entering a new year does not erase the challenges life sometimes brings, but it does provide a fresh start mentally to tackle them. Even when plans are realistic and achievable, there are times when situations happen, and you have a setback. Try not to feel guilty or defeated. Use it as an opportunity to look ahead and take that first step to get back on track.
Have a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!!