During this time of year many people set New Year’s resolutions to make a start fresh to the upcoming year. Whether it’s exercising more, setting a budget, stopping smoking, or donating more to the community, these goals are meant to improve our own lives and those around us. And while most people have good intentions it can be very difficult to stick to your resolution. Statistics show the average length of time a person sticks with their New Year’s resolution is only about six weeks. Below are a few tips on how to take your resolution to the next level and make it stick throughout the entire year. After a few months it may just turn into your normal way of life instead of a temporary resolution.
1. Make them realistic. It can be difficult to stick with a resolution if it is something that is very hard to accomplish. Make sure to keep it reasonable and don’t set too many resolutions at the same time. No matter how simple it is, if it betters you as a person it’s a step in the right direction.
2. Write it down. Putting it on paper makes it official and gives you something to look at as a reminder. Put it on your mirror to look at when you get ready in the morning and at night. You can also write down a plan of action if it is going to take steps to accomplish. This will make it easier to follow on a day to day basis.
3. Include your friends and family for encouragement. Make sure to let people know what you are trying to accomplish so they can support and encourage you along the way, it’s a great way to keep yourself accountable. You can also set a team resolution by including family or friends to do it with so you can support each other.
4. Set goals and reward yourself during the year. Just saying you want to do something for the entire year can be daunting. Try to set goals throughout the year and decide on what you can do to reward yourself along the way. Shorter term goals may be easier to accomplish and it will be more fun!
5. Don’t let a minor setback derail your resolution. Give yourself a break. Resolutions can be difficult because you are trying to do something you have previously failed to do. If you happen to have slip ups along the way don’t let that ruin your resolution. It’s never too late to start over or begin again anytime during the year.