So you kicked off the new year with big goals… and blew it by mid-January. We’ve all been there. Here are some tips to help you keep your new year’s resolutions.
BE REALISTIC
The top way to fall short of your goal is to make it unrealistic. For example, resolving to never eat your favorite food again is setting you up to fail. Instead, strive for a goal that is much more attainable.
PLAN AHEAD
Don’t make your resolution on New Year’s Eve. If you wait until the last minute, it will be based on your mindset that particular day. Instead, plan your resolution well before December 31st.
TALK ABOUT IT
Don’t keep your resolution to yourself. Tell friends and family members who will be there to support your resolve to change yourself for the better or improve your health.
TRACK YOUR PROGRESS
Keep track of each small success. Short-term goals are much easier to keep, and each small accomplishment will help keep you motivated. Instead of focusing on losing 30 pounds, focus on losing the first five… and then five more.
STICK TO IT
Experts say it takes about 21 days for a new activity to become a habit and six months for it to become part of your personality. It won’t happen overnight, so stick with it.
If you have totally run out of steam when it comes to keeping your resolution by mid-January, don’t give up. Recommit yourself for 24 hours. The 24-hour increments will soon build on each other and, before you know it, you will be back on track.
Good luck!
