We are all familiar with the desire to make proactive changes to our lives and relationships. We make grand promises with ourselves about how we are going to change and get that body we always wanted. But truth is, we are also oh-so-familiar with the feeling of failure from not achieving what we were so pumped about at the end of the previous year. What are the solutions to this perpetual problem?
Create a Plan
Create a map or outline of how you plan to achieve your resolution. While creating this outline, think about how you are going to handle temptation. Once you start to deviate from your goal, remind yourself what you intended to do with your goal. This moment of intentional reflection could be the difference between falling off the wagon or sticking to your resolution.
Be Realistic
It is unrealistic to attempt to completely change a behavior that has been a part of your identity for the larger part of your life in a matter of a few months or a year. Take small steps first.
Think Small
If smoking has been a part of your everyday routine for ten years, then trying to quit cold turkey on January 1 and continuing not to smoke for the rest of the year is quite unrealistic for most people. Instead of beginning with such a large goal, establish smaller goals to lead up to your success. This is called conditioning. You can’t run a marathon without a little training first.
Reward Yourself
Take the time to treat yourself with incentives once you have reached your small goals. This will help keep you driven and focused while maintaining your larger goal.
Get Up When You Fall Down
Yes, you will most likely falter here and there. So what? All that matters is how you handle it. It is ok to slip up. Give yourself a break and don’t obsess about it.
Make 2015’s resolution different. Start small. End big. Make it a success!