Each year it's the same thing...coming up with and sticking to a New Year's Resolution. It is never too early to plan ahead. In fact, you have a greater chance of being committed to your resolution if it is well planned rather than a spur-of-the-moment decision. The joke (and reality) is very few of us follow through with our resolutions. Side note, I did stick with one since 1999 and I haven't had a soda since! Yay for me! But after that, every other resolution went by the wayside...until now...
Here is a guide to increasing your odds of making a New Year's Resolution worth following through:
1. Make your resolution realistic
2. Embrace that a small change can make a big and significant difference
3. Recognize that change takes time...maybe even a very, very long time
4. Know your limitations and work within those limits
5. Get support
Making your resolution realistic is essential. Don't go in with an "all-or-nothing" approach. Additionally, try to take on only one goal at a time. Taking on too many (even two at a time) can quickly become overwhelming.
Second, focus on the small changes. Even small changes can have a huge and lasting difference. The challenge is to not force something to happen or to become impatient during the process. If you run into a setback, that is okay. Keep moving forward.
Third, recognizing that change takes time is key evidence that you are moving in the right direction. Give yourself time and space for change to grow. Perhaps reviewing your goals and examining the progress you make over time will continue to motivate you.
Next, know your limits; we all have limitations. Work within your limits and that will help decrease the amount of discouragement or frustration you may experience.
Lastly, getting support will not only increase your odds of following through, but also it will add more incentive and motivation to your efforts. Find a close friend, family member, or reach out to a professional for that added support.
Although most of the hype about making goals comes around the new year, making life changes and goals can be a year long process. Don't get overwhelmed, just plan small and realistic!
