Making New Year’s Resolutions is as traditional as eggnog and watching the ball drop in Times Square, a time for new beginnings and setting positive goals. Studies show that only a small percentage of people (just eight percent) actually stick to their resolutions throughout the year. Even if you fall off the path, it’s never too late to make healthy lifestyle improvements. In this blog post, we will share 10 tips to help you stay committed to New Year’s resolutions.
How To Stick To New Year’s Resolutions
- Set Realistic and Specific Goals
Setting attainable, specific goals is a great way to get started. For instance, rather than deciding to exercise more often, resolve to go for a 30-minute walk every morning. Not only does this make it easier to measure progress, it can help you stay motivated and avoid feeling overwhelmed. - Create a Plan of Action
Setting a clear plan is crucial because it outlines the steps you need to take to reach your goals. Line up manageable tasks and set deadlines for each milestone. This will keep you organized and focused. Following a detailed roadmap also helps you chart progress as you move forward. - Share Your Resolutions
Having the support and encouragement of friends and family makes it easier to stick with New Year’s resolutions. Telling friends, family, and even social media followers about your resolutions keeps you committed and feeling accountable in a positive way because others are aware of your aims. You might even succeed in establishing a mutually supportive personal support network that encourages everyone to set goals. - Track Your Progress
Whether you keep a journal, use a mobile app, or follow a simple checklist, tracking achievements will encourage you to keep moving forward. Don’t overlook small wins along the way that reinforce your commitment to succeed. - Find an Accountability Buddy
Finding a friend or family member with similar New Year’s resolutions can be incredibly helpful, a “teammate” who relates to your efforts and challenges and keeps you on the straight and narrow when you’d just love an extra piece of cake, or feel tempted to skip a workout. Sharing your journey makes working toward a goal more enjoyable and increases your chances of success. - Focus on One Resolution at a Time
Trying to do too much can reduce the likelihood you’ll succeed. Instead of overwhelming yourself with multiple goals, prioritize, and focus on one goal at a time. Once you feel confident in your progress, move on to the next objective. - Be Kind to Yourself
Staying on goal is important, but don’t feel bad if you miss a day or give in to weakness once in a while. Be patient with yourself, and use any setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. - Seek Support and Resources
You don’t have to do it alone and unaided. Seek outside resources and advice from those you trust. There are plenty of apps, online communities, and books that can provide guidance and motivation. Consider joining a community of like-minded individuals who will support and encourage you. - Stay Positive and Visualize Success
Remember, you are your biggest supporter. Use self-affirmation and visualize what it will be like when you attain your goal. Remind yourself why you set these goals in the first place and imagine the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you succeed. - Celebrate Successes
Don’t forget to celebrate achievements along the way. Rewarding yourself for reaching milestones will boost confidence and your determination to achieve your resolution. However you choose to celebrate, always acknowledge how far you’ve come and reinforce your commitment to keep going.
Remember, statistics show that only about 8% of people achieve their New Year’s resolutions (1). However, this shouldn’t discourage you from making New Year’s resolutions because it’s always worthwhile to set goals and strive for self-improvement. Every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to becoming the person you want to be.
So go ahead, make a plan and believe in yourself. Embrace the idea that it’s never too late to make positive change. With determination, perseverance, and the right strategies, this can be the year you achieve a meaningful and fulfilling life. Here’s to a successful and transformative year ahead!
(1) Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail and What to do About it. Raywilliams.ca, 2023.
