Time and time again, you hear people talk about setting New Year's resolutions, yet they don't keep them. Check out these methods for keeping your goals in mind as you sift through another new year.
Be Realistic With New Year's Resolutions
"The key to keeping one's New Year's Resolutions involves picking a realistic goal," says Kirsti A. Dyer, Suite101 writer. And Dyer is right – how realistic is it to aim to lose 50 pounds in one month?
That being said, make sure you take baby steps. For example, if you've never exercised before, your goal for the week can be to complete one hip hop cardio class from start to finish.
Give Yourself Credit for Accomplishments
Reward yourself whenever you've accomplished a goal. Give yourself a gold star sticker on a chart, buy a cheap trinket, anything that will make you feel great about yourself. Just make sure it's a healthy reward – eating a pack of jelly beans isn't recommended, and, depending on what your resolution is, will steer you away from your goal.
Make a Poster to Document Work on a Resolution
Get visual with your resolutions by making a goal poster that's related to that New Year's resolution. Find a reusable bulletin board and cut and tack inspirational words, quotes, photos, numbers.
This method is also a great way to work towards a goal if you're doing so with a group of friends or co-workers.
Increase Accessibility
"If your new years resolution requires specific items, make sure you have them handy," writes Suite101 writer Chris Christian.
So if you choose to lose weight through a new exercise regiment, have weights, a stability ball or flat bench in your home, or invest in a gym membership. Or if you've decided to eat healthier, make sure your fridge is stocked with the right fruits, vegetables, supplements, oils and such.
Keep a Journal of Work on a New Year Resolution
Keep a journal and write down your steps to reaching your goals everyday. Write down what makes you happy, what time you slipped up or what exactly prevented you from reaching the next step. Look back at your journal and you'll notice a pattern of behaviour, which will make you realize what you need to improve in the near future.
Overall, making new goals for the New Year is a great way to live towards a healthier, improved lifestyle. Make sure your resolutions are realistic – take baby steps and gradually progress. Also, reward yourself with a healthy treat whenever you've accomplished something.
Depending on your resolution, make sure any equipment or ingredients you need are accessible. Moreover, keep a journal by your night table. Sure, writing in a journal may seem like a hassle, but in the end, you'll learn more about yourself. As always, make sure your friends and family know about your goals – you'll be surprised to see how much support you can get.
