When a new year comes around, most people take the opportunity to set a resolution that they hope to achieve before it ends. Some choose to eat healthy, loose a few pounds, or even get more sleep. What many don't realize is that more than half of all resolutions that are made aren't achieved. For those looking to make a resolution for this coming year, here are a few tips on choosing one that you will actually follow through on.
Determine Why You're Choosing the Goal
When you find the meaning behind why you picked the resolution, it helps to keep you motivated through the journey. Finding the "why" puts a purpose behind the action.
Be Realistic
Choose a resolution that you know you will achieve. More times than not, you'll accomplish it. Just don't make the goal too easy.
Don't Over Commit
The key is to start with baby steps and go from there. Changing a habit takes time. For example, if your end goal is to meditate 7 days a week, start of with 2 days a week and build up from there.
The Resolution Should Follow the SMART Guidelines
For those who don't know, SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely. Your resolution should be absolutely clear. You should be able to measure or track your progress towards a specific end goal. Choose a resolution that you can actually achieve. The resolution should matter to you. Give your resolution an end date. Give yourself enough time to do it with lots of smaller intermediate goals to achieve along the way.
It's Okay If You Mess Up
We're all humans and get off track at times and it's okay. But don't let that discourage you from restarting again.