We've made it to 2023! The new year holds the promise of new beginnings. It's time for a fresh start as we tackle our New Year's resolutions with fervor...but maybe that's easier said than done. Studies show that only 9 percent of those who set a resolution will actually accomplish their goals. In fact, this Friday is known as Quitter's Day because it is apparently the most likely day that people will drop their resolutions.
Don't be part of that unsuccessful majority if you can help it! Read on for advice on how to uphold your New Year's Resolution and achieve the goals you've set for yourself.
Be realistic. Many like to dream of big changes, but it's best to start small when it comes to New Year's Resolutions. Focus on one concrete goal at a time. Know your capabilities and don't pile more on your plate than you can handle. Break your goals into smaller steps or else you might quickly feel overwhelmed by the pressure you've put on yourself. If you're one of those people who picked an ambitious resolution, it's not too late to rework it into something more doable.
Have a game plan. We mentioned last year that most resolutions fail because they are not specific enough. If you don't have a proper sense of direction, you may find yourself wandering and then faltering in your attempt.
For example, let's say "lose some weight" is one of your goals in order to burn off those calories from holiday sweets. If you truly want to be successful, you'll have to work through the finer details. How much weight would you like to lose? How do you plan on achieving this? Will you make adjustments to your diet or create an exercise schedule? Taking the time to think things through will heighten your chance of success in the long run.
Create accountability. A solid support system can be a lifesaver. Share your resolutions with friends or family. Update them on how it's going. Better yet, rope them in if they are seeking the same self-improvement! You can serve as a source of motivation for each other, particularly on days where it's tough to make the resolution stick. Or you can turn it into a friendly competition, which could give you an extra push towards victory. Sharing your experiences and struggles will make the journey fun and your goals more attainable.
Practice flexibility. Life does not always go according to plan. If something is not meeting your expectations, that's not your cue to give up--that would be akin to losing. Too many people give up at the first sign of a setback and mark their resolution as failed.
Instead, make adjustments to your resolution as you see fit. If it's proving tough to stick to weekly goals, make them bi-weekly or monthly goals. There are no rules that say you have to be locked into the same goal you set at the start of the year. Don't beat yourself up if you fall behind. Get back on the horse and keep going!
Be patient. If you're trying to turn your resolution into a habit, it's going to take time. In today's world, waiting can be tough since we're used to instant results, but there's a reason "patience is a virtue." Change is a process. Use this time to practice discipline. Maintain a committed mindset. As time goes by, it will only become easier.
The Weekly Reset. If you're feeling intimidated by the ambitious goal you've set for the year, try breaking it down. Just as we view the new year as a time for a fresh start, our minds also subconsciously view the start of the week in the same light. Our productivity rates are usually higher and we're more apt to start things off on the right foot. Tackling your resolution on a week-by-week basis may feel more doable and give you a higher chance of success.
Stay positive. Believe in yourself and your success. Dwelling on the negative will only drag you down. Focus on the benefits of your resolution and pat yourself on the back for seeking self-improvement. Positive self-talk can go a long way. In fact, practicing positivity could be its own resolution.
While all of these tips are regarding New Year's Resolutions, the truth is, they can be applied to any form of goal setting. You don't need the start of a new calendar to tell you to start seeking self-improvement. Your life is your own and you have the power to make changes for the better at any time.
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