As 2014 comes to an end, many of us will begin 2015 with resolutions to make improvements in the New Year. Statistics show that 1 out of every 3 people make New Year’s Resolutions, but only about 75% stick with them longer than a week. Less than half stick with them longer than six months. Setting goals for self-improvement is a good thing, but they must be reasonable to be accomplished. Resolutions must focus on simple, specific goals to result in the victory of success throughout the year. Hopefully 12 months of success will result in lifelong habits that will continue for many years to come. The ultimate outcome is a BETTER YOU!!
Here are some suggestions from a self-professed goal setter who has experienced success, as well as some resolution failures, over the years.
- Be specific with your goals. For example, I will workout 4 days a week, or I will eat 5 servings of healthy veggies every day.
- Tell your resolutions to the others in your household, or those in your inner circle if you live alone. Ask them to help hold your accountable. Request that they do not sabotage your goals. We all need support, not obstacles to accomplish our goals.
- Get back on track if you lose your way for a day or two. Do not allow a slight slip to turn into a goal failure. Don’t beat yourself up over a day or two off track. A few days away from your focused goal shouldn’t justify total abandonment.
- Share your joy of accomplishment with others along the way, or write about them in a journal to record your successes and reflect on how you feel (the good and the frustrating parts…….in reality, you’ll have both).
- Celebrate and reward yourself at the end of each month.
In January 2012 I set a resolution to run (okay, walk) a 5k every month for a year. A friend agreed to join me, and we made a vow to hold each other accountable for staying on track. That 12-month goal has now resulted in 36 straight months of 5ks, sometimes even 2-3 a month. Other results of that simple resolution have been:
- Support of deserving causes and charities
- Meeting new people
- Increased stamina……my walking is now running
- Improved health
- Improved self-confidence
- Victory of success
Happy New Year…….may your 2015 be full of joy and accomplished resolutions!!