New Year’s resolution is a perfect start to the new year, here are a few tips to help you follow through and make this year’s resolution stick.
It is 2023 already, and needless to say, the start of every new year is always marked with our enthusiasm to kick start new things with phrases like ‘a fresh start’, which is probably why so many of us make New Year’s resolutions. Indeed, a new year always presents itself as a great opportunity to work on our bad habits, set new goals and establish new routines that can contribute to our overall growth — personally, physically, intellectually, socially, emotionally and professionally. However, while our eagerness to make and keep up with resolutions is at its peak at the beginning of the new year, as weeks pass by our gusto slowly starts to fizzle out and we fall back into our old patterns, thus abandoning our resolutions despite our good intentions. In fact, according to a study conducted by the University of Scranton, it is found that the majority of people quit their resolutions within two weeks into the new year, whereas only 19% of people manage to stick to their goals.
So, how to ensure that you succeed with your New Year’s resolutions? Well, we have put down a list of a few tried and tested tips to help your resolution stick this year. Read on…
Be Realistic & Set Achievable Goals
One of the primary reasons why many fail to continue with their new year’s resolutions is that they often set lofty resolutions. Setting unattainable goals is the surest way to fail. Instead strive for an achievable goal, like a SMART goal. Often used in the business lexicon SMART stands for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely and is applied to set doable goals. This principle pretty much can be applied to many New Year’s resolutions like eating healthy food, saving money, exercising, and starting a new hobby, as well. For example, instead of resolving to completely give up on sugar, you can strive to limit your sugar intake as much as possible or instead of simply saying you will exercise regularly, stick to a 30 minutes exercise a routine couple of times a week to kick start your workout journey. So, focus on something more concrete and doable, the idea is to make your goal more realistic rather than drastic.
Focus On One Goal At A Time
As we set new year's resolutions, it's important to focus on one goal at a time. Trying to tackle too many things at once can lead to stress and frustration, which can make it difficult to stick to your resolution in the long haul. Instead, set a small goal and work on it until it's accomplished. This will ensure that you are focusing on your efforts and make it easier to track your progress. Psychologists say that achieving even one small goal can boost your belief in yourself. Once this goal is achieved, you can set a new one and keep the momentum going. Likewise, for bigger goals, consider breaking them apart into small tasks to work on one at a time. It is daunting when you set too many goals at once and makes it harder to stay focused. So, this year, make sure to stay focused on one goal at a time and see how seamlessly you achieve your resolution!
Be Ready For Change
Although change is always happening, it is a tough nut to crack, especially when it comes to your new year’s resolutions. In fact, one of the top reasons that hold people back from achieving their goals is that people are not ready to adapt to the change in lifestyle or behaviour. Understanding that change is important to achieve your goals and preparing yourself for that change will help you work towards your resolution better. When you are ready for a change, you can embrace it and make the most of the opportunities it brings. Even if you make a misstep or two, you will have taken the first step towards being ready for change. Change can be daunting, but with the right mindset, it can also be incredibly rewarding. So go ahead make a resolution this year and prepare yourself for the great changes that are coming your way.
Keep A Resolution Journal
Studies show that you are more likely to achieve your goals if you have a written record of what they are. Seeing your goals in writing can help to motivate you and keep you on track. Hence keeping a resolution journal, where you write about your goals, and track your progress, struggles and success with it can be helpful. Dr Kloubec says. “Honest reflection can help you to see how you may be sabotaging yourself or to recognize patterns of behaviour.” Each week, take some time to reflect on what you have accomplished and what still needs to be done. This will help you to stay focused and motivated. A resolution journal can be a great way to hold yourself accountable and increase your chances of success. So, why not give it a try?
Reward Your Small Achievements
We understand that sticking by your long-term goals isn’t a cakewalk, but what nudges you to continue with your resolution process is your ability to celebrate smaller successes along the way. Recognizing and rewarding your small accomplishments will keep you motivated and help you stay on track with your resolution for the year. One way to do it is to set a reward system for yourself. However, this doesn’t mean you gobble down an entire packet of chips, especially if your resolution is to adopt a healthier habit, instead treat yourself to something that you enjoy and which doesn’t interfere with your resolution. For example, after a dedicated two weeks workout session at the gym, reward yourself with new fitness clothes, a good book, new music or a movie.
Don’t Be Too Harsh On Yourself
It is human to make mistakes, hence it is important to remember that an occasional slip is absolutely okay. One misstep shouldn’t undo all the efforts you put in towards your goal. Take each day at a time, and do your best. Don’t be too harsh on yourself, mistakes are a part of the process so don’t spend days feeling guilty. Rather learn from your mistakes and avoid repeating them. According to a survey, it is reported that people who succeeded in maintaining their resolution often had that occasional slip but instead of giving up, they grew more determined to pursue their goal.
Believe In Yourself
Lastly, remember that nothing can be achieved in life until and unless you believe in yourself and your capabilities. If you want to achieve your new year’s resolution, then believe that you are capable of accomplishing your goals. You need to be confident about yourself, to make things happen.
