New year, new start!
The beginning of the year is an amazing time for for self-betterment, making new healthy habits, establishing new routines, and doing things differently and positively.
New Year's Resolutions have been a human practice for centuries, with the most common modern-day resolutions being improved physical health, weight loss, and a change in eating habits.
And of course, there's also personal growth, mental health, work advancement, new studies, and letting go of addictions to consider.
But did you know that only 12 percent of Americans tend to follow through with New Year's Resolutions? So don't feel bad if yours from earlier years didn't quite end up panning out.
Keeping goals intact is not easy!
In 2021, I'm committed to making resolutions and sticking with them. Anyone with me?! Let's do this together!
After doing some research on best practices for seeing New Year's Resolutions through, I found some strategies that I'm going to focus on as the year begins. Maybe they'll help you as well 🙂
#1 - Identify a Specific Resolution — No Half-Baked Resolutions Allowed
Reflect on what you really want to accomplish. The more concrete you can get the better. Take some time to really think about it — with pure intention.
Research suggests that people who create resolutions that add behaviors rather than erase them are more likely to stick. Put simply, starting a new behavior is positive and fun and not a burden.
For example, the statement "I will start eating healthier foods this year" rather than "I will stop eating sugar all-together" comes with a lot less weight. Most likely, if you begin filling your body with healthy foods, you will naturally begin to reduce sugar intake.
Create a focus that is both inspiring and doable and anything is possible!
#2 - Break a Resolution into Small Manageable Steps
Reflect on what you really want to accomplish and then break it up into attainable steps. Write your goals down, make daily lists, set reminders on your phone, write yourself encouraging notes, and place them on your mirror so you can see them every day.
If you want to start eating healthier foods, stock your refrigerator with nutritious options — limit sugars and processed foods. Replace desserts with fruit or lower calorie options. Choose organic. Be realistic and let yourself have cheat days.
Set your expectations properly.
By choosing a concrete and specific goal, you can plan out how you are going to achieve it.
#3 - Share Your goals with Others
Tell your friends and family about your resolutions and dare to surround yourself with those who will support you.
We all need cheerleaders!!! Limit time and create boundaries with those who bring you down.
Consider joining a support group, finding an accountability partner, and/or hiring a professional to help you achieve your goals.
If you want to lose weight, invest in hiring a trainer or invest in an online workout class to help motivate you.
Try following influencers/experts on social media that educate and motivate you in whatever you're attempting.
For example, one of my goals is to start cooking more at home, so I've recently started following chefs who make quick and easily family-style dinners to motivate and teach me.
#4 - Hold Yourself Accountable and Commit
Constantly remind yourself why you made your resolutions and why you're doing it. Think about all the positive outcomes your resolution will have and what you have to gain.
Keep a daily journal to write about your challenges and victories. Work at it, no matter what happens
#5 - Learn From Your Past Failures
Evaluate what went wrong the last time you made a resolution or made a goal. What was most effective and what wasn't in your pursuit? What factors contributed to you giving up?
If you can't get rid of a mental block that's holding you back, consider consulting with a therapist or life coach.
Getting unstuck is a science in itself, so don't let falling into old habits keep you from your goals.
Last Words
Please give yourself grace. Be kind, loving, and flexible with yourself.
We just exited a really tough year, so please don’t try to chase perfection. It's totally normal to have hiccups and missteps.
Make it a habit to celebrate your daily victories. You were put on this planet for a reason, and with self-love and focus, anything can happen!
