The New Year is approaching, prompting declarations and New Year’s resolutions from the masses. Although many people don’t bother with New Year’s resolutions, most of us promise ourselves – with good intentions – that we will eat healthier, get more exercise or save more money. But, unsurprisingly, four out of the five people who make New Year's resolutions end up breaking them. One third of those people won’t even make it to the end of January before slipping back into comfortable habits. If you are determined to stick to your guns this year, you can tackle your resolutions with these helpful tips.
1. Create the right resolution – Use the SMART Goal process to help you make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Don’t allow your goals to be vague or unclear. If you truly want to accomplish them then you need a clear idea of how success will be measured in the end. For example: if you want to save more money this year, set a specific amount you’d like to see in your savings account by the end of 2019.
2. Make a plan – Since change isn’t immediate, make sure you have a step-by-step process on how to achieve your resolutions. If you're trying to form or break a routine, look at the three ingredients of a habit by Charles Duhigg. He describes these as the cue, the routine and the reward. For example:
Bad habit: I check Instagram too often.
Cue: I feel bored.
Routine: I check Instagram.
Reward: I am entertained.
Way to change the behavior: Instead of checking Instagram, try talking to colleagues or peers around you when you’re bored. You can also think of what you’d like to accomplish or do more of – like reading books, working out, or spending time with family. Every time you feel that cue, consciously act on whatever you’re trying to accomplish.
3. Conquer your obstacles – It’s probable you will encounter obstacles as you work towards your resolutions. Be realistic and proactive by thinking through the potential difficulties before you begin. How will you stay positive if you don’t see results right away? What do you do if progress diminishes? Find the answer to questions like these and you’ll be more inclined to overcome the complications when they occur!
4. Find accountability- Confide in others about what you’re trying to accomplish – you don’t have to do this alone! If your friends have similar goals, hold each other accountable as you work towards them together. Even verbally stating your goal to others will make you more inclined to commit and accomplish them. Make a reminder to yourself to check back in on your progress at a specific point in the year. This gives you the opportunity to correct any poor behaviors that may have allowed you to slip back into your old habits, before it’s too late.
Keeping your New Year’s resolution is not for the faint of heart! It takes hard work and dedication to make a resolution into your reality. If you fail at this year’s resolution, don’t allow negative thoughts to ruin your determination. You can always try again without having to wait for New Year’s 2020.
Healthcare2U wishes you and your family a happy and healthy New Year!