Most of us will be setting some kind of New Year’s resolution, but how many of us will be sticking to it?
Entering a new year, and a new decade can be both exciting and daunting. The parties are over and it’s now time to think about those New Year’s resolutions!
Research shows that around 60% of us make New Year’s resolutions but only 8% of us are successful in achieving them.
Whether it’s losing weight, saving money or giving up smoking, we all have vices we want to conquer, but how do we go about this?
Be Realistic
When it comes to New Year’s resolutions it’s important, we don’t set unrealistic expectations. To be in with a chance of achieving a goal you are better off starting small or breaking down a larger goal into manageable chunks. For example, if you are a running newbie, it’s probably best to set a goal of completing a 5km and then a 10km run before aiming for the London marathon.
TIP: Write down your end goal and then the steps you are going to have to complete to reach this goal.
Measure It
When making a New Year’s resolution it’s vital you can measure it. Setting yourself a goal of “losing weight”, “exercising more” or “eating clean food” is simply too vague. Ensure your resolution is clear and achievable by making sure you can track and measure it. For example, exercising more might mean going to the gym twice a week. This goal is quantifiable, making it easy to track your progress!
TIP: Create a daily or weekly checklist which will help you to achieve your goal. This will hold you accountable, encouraging you to complete it within a set timeframe.
Plan for It
By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. Research has shown that less than 25% of people stay committed to their resolution after just 30 days, so plan for it! This might mean making time to go to the gym, meal plan, or analyse your spending each week. Whatever your goal, it’s important to decide what you’d like to achieve by when, and then work backwards, this allows you to schedule in time to ensure you get there!
TIP: Get into the habit of keeping a diary, a journal or a wall planner so that you can visualise and plan the steps you need to take to reach your goal.
Remain Positive
No one’s perfect and your journey towards your goal won’t be either. No matter how much you plan, life is unexpected, and things can get in the way of you reaching your goals. Don’t worry, this is perfectly normal, just pick things up wherever you left off no matter if that’s in a week or even a month’s time, just remain positive and don’t give up!
TIP: Don’t beat yourself up if life sways you off course. If you are feeling particularly down try keeping a gratitude journal and write down the things you are grateful for each day.
Keeping New Year’s resolutions is always challenging, but if you tackle each of these steps one at a time there’s no doubt you will see progress! Join Simone Thomas’ Wellness World on Facebook and leave a comment with your New Year’s resolution, don’t forget to mention how you intend on keeping it!