Every year around this time, people begin to talk of New Year’s resolutions that may or may not stick. Why will this year be any different?
Well, because this year, you will learn how to make successful resolutions you can keep!
Be realistic
Sure, you could make a long list of incredible ideas like climbing Mount Everest, losing 100 pounds or writing the next bestselling novel. Now do a reality check, and ask yourself how realistic those goals really are.
Unless you are already a mountain climber, climbing Mount Everest is probably not going to happen. However, a great goal for the year could be to gradually get into better shape. Don’t project a goal on yourself that you aren’t likely to meet – that is the best way to defeat yourself before you begin.
By setting realistic goals, you can feel a sense of pride and accomplishment with each objective that you meet. Try to set a goal such as exercising for 10 minutes a day, three days a week for the first month; then increase by 5 minutes for the next month, and so on. Yes, these are baby steps, but this is the most likely path to success.
Big changes take a serious life commitment, which can be a little daunting. Gradual changes over time are far easier to accomplish, and just as gratifying when you do.
Remember, small progress is still progress to be proud of
One example of this concept is the journey towards losing weight. Some people do successfully lose 100 pounds in a year, but many more fall short and feel disappointed, which can lead to quitting and rebound weight gain. Instead, set your sights on a commitment to eat healthier.
By improving the nutritional content of your meals, and cutting back on the processed and sugary foods, you will lose weight naturally and improve your overall health. It is much easier to lose weight and feel better gradually than to miserably struggle to attain a goal that is too difficult to reach.
As for writing the next bestseller, it would be better to start by simply writing 1-2 paragraphs a day. If you feel motivated to write more, then do so, but if all you write is 1-2 paragraphs a day, let it be enough. It doesn’t matter how slow the travel goes on your journey, as long as you keep moving; you will still get to the end.
Set yourself up for success
The examples above are just to give you an idea of how to look objectively at a big goal and see the smaller steps that can eventually take you there. It is good to set resolutions for things that will positively impact your life. Try to do so in a way that will set you up for success rather than failure.
Remember to:
· Be realistic
· Set milestones to reach along the way
· Forgive little mistakes, and keep trying
Make sure that the changes you decide upon are changes for yourself, not someone else. In order to make it work, you have to want it for yourself – whatever it is.
Also, remember that setbacks are a part of life. You will make mistakes, as we all do. Just chalk it up to a bump in the road, and then continue your journey.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://ed.ted.com/on/cu5IwKY6#review
http://www.sethchernoff.com/spirituality/eight-proven-ways-to-succeed-with-your-new-years-resolutions
http://lifehacker.com/5873322/a-three-step-approach-to-ensuring-resolution-success
