Welcome to the new year! It's that time of year again, where we’re all trying to set new goals and resolutions to help make positive changes in our lives for the year to come. But, it’s also natural to feel discouraged about setting goals sometimes, especially if in the past, you’ve struggled to stick to your resolutions.
The truth is, we all go through that. The good news is that there are a few really easy things you can do on a day-to-day basis to help you stay on track when it comes to your 2023 goals. Here are a few do’s and don’ts you can implement to help you stick to your resolutions, achieve your goals, and make this year your best yet!
1. DO: Be VERY specific with your goals.
It's easy to say "I want to exercise more", but that doesn’t really do much. What does that mean? Exercise once a week? 3x a week?
One of the top reasons many people fail to meet their goals is because they’re not very specific with what it is they want to achieve. And so it becomes difficult to identify how you are going to achieve those goals, when you don’t really know what the goal is and what success looks like.
It’s much more effective to set a specific goal like "exercise for 30 minutes three times a week." This way, you can track your progress, measure success overtime, and start to see the results of your hard work. It’s also so much easier to hold yourself accountable!
Plus, it's much more satisfying to check off a specific goal than to just say you've "exercised more." Remember, it's the little wins that add up to big success. By getting specific and tracking your goals, you can stay motivated and on track to achieving your goals.
2. DON’T: Try to do too much at once.
It's easy to get carried away with all the exciting possibilities of the new year, but it's important to be realistic and take things one step at a time. Trying to make too many changes all at once can lead to burnout and ultimately hinder your progress. Instead, focus on one or two goals at a time. When you feel comfortable and ready, you can add more to your plate. Slow and steady wins the race, so don't overwhelm yourself trying to do too much all at once.
3. DO: Find ways to make your resolution fun.
It's no secret that resolutions can be a bit of a drag. But, don't let that discourage you! Instead, try finding ways to make your resolution more fun. If you're resolving to exercise more, consider finding a workout buddy or trying a new type of exercise that you find enjoyable. Or, if your resolution is to eat healthier, experiment with new recipes or find healthier versions of your favorite foods. By making your resolution more enjoyable, you'll be more likely to stick with it and ultimately achieve your goals.
4. DON’T: Be too hard on yourself.
It's easy to get discouraged when trying to stick to a resolution, but setbacks are a normal part of the process. If you slip up or miss a goal, don't beat yourself up – just get back on track and keep working towards your resolution. For example, if you missed your morning workout session, don't worry! Just try to squeeze in some physical activity later in the day or jump back on schedule the next morning. It's all about progress, not perfection. So, don't be too hard on yourself and keep pushing towards your goals.
5. DO: Find an accountability partner and seek support.
Having an accountability partner can be incredibly helpful when working towards your resolutions. Consider finding a friend or family member who can check in with you regularly and help keep you on track. Additionally, if you're finding it difficult to stay motivated or struggle to stay on track, don't be afraid to seek additional support. This could be in the form of a professional coach or counselor, or even a support group. Remember, you don't have to go it alone – sometimes a little extra help can make a big difference
As you work towards your New Year's resolutions, it's important to hold yourself accountable and stay committed to your goals. But, it's also crucial to practice self-compassion and be kind to yourself. It's natural to encounter challenges and setbacks along the way, but don't let these discourage you. Remember, progress is more important than perfection. By focusing on progress and being kind to yourself, you'll be better equipped to stick to your resolutions and make positive, lasting changes in your life. Keep going, and you'll be well on your way to becoming your best self in the new year. We’re rooting for you!
