Do you have trouble sticking to your resolutions each year? Follow these steps to create a habit and finally fulfill your resolution!
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At the beginning of each year, we come up with a list of things we want to do differently. Many of us would like to start working out, eat healthier, spend less money, and etc. And what better time to set a goal than in January. The new year means a fresh start!
But let us be real for a second... It never sticks!
I know you because you're just like me! Those resolutions never last the whole year and often only last a few months at best! Multiple studies show that on average, less than 8% of Americans actually stick to their goals. Yikes! Even with all the failed attempts, we still keep trying each year thinking it will be different. Well, I have some fantastic news for you, this year, it CAN be different! Let me show you how!
I've researched the best ways to help you form a habit and together, we can reach our goals this year!
Start Small and Reasonable
If you really want this year to be different, you need to start small and work your way up to big goals. You don't learn to swim very well if you're thrown into the deep end You may keep yourself alive, but you won't understand the techniques or create a happy experience you'd want to recreate. That's why with your resolutions, you need to learn how and then take baby steps. Come up with some small resolutions first. For example, if you want to cut out junk food completely, start by just limiting the amount you allow yourself per week. Or if you'd like to work out every day, start by once or twice a week. It seems a whole lot less scary and intimidating, and a lot easier to achieve. Plus, the little victories keep you motivated!
Create your "plan of attack"
Now that you have come up with some ideas, brainstorm some ways you can achieve them. I recommend writing them down in a journal (Check out this journal on Amazon, BTW it's waterproof, MIND BLOWN). Make a list of things that motivate you and ways you can reward yourself. Then schedule it into your days. A planner can be super helpful as well (I recommend this adorable one from Amazon). If you're wanting to work out more, create a set time every week to commit to working out. Come up with a way to track when you complete it and how you will reward yourself. Remember, don't be too hard on yourself. It's important to create positive associations with your goal. Every little step towards your goal is a victory and should be celebrated!
Include a Buddy
If your main struggle is holding yourself accountable, find a buddy to share your goal with! Whether it's a friend, S/O, or a family member, if you both keep each other accountable, it becomes so much harder to quit! Bonus, you have someone to share your thoughts with! Not only are you holding each other responsible, but you are also sharing your victories making it that much more fun. Having a buddy can also take the pressure off. What used to seem like a chore can be a lot more fun with a friend around!
Reasonable Timing
Many goals can be achieved within a few months. But there are many more that will take much much longer. Don't freak out! It takes patience and time to form a habit and for some that can seem really intimidating. That's why the experts recommend a buddy to keep you on track. For one person, it may take a month to get into the habit of eating healthy, while for another it could take closer to a year to cut out most unhealthy foods. The important part is that you are taking the time that YOU need to achieve your goal. Even if this year's goals have to carry into next year, that is 100% ok! Many people assume you have to completely change your lifestyle right away because they want results fast. But that becomes a huge stressor and makes you more likely to give up! Set a timeline to achieve the goal that is reasonable for you while still taking it slow.
Mistakes Happen!
There will be times where you miss a workout or slip a sweet treat. But don't be too hard on yourself! If you find yourself slipping, maybe it's time to reevaluate your goal. Is your time frame too short? Are you doing too much too fast? Are you having a hard time staying motivated? Take some time to figure out what is going wrong and create a new game plan. It can also help to use a Habit Tracker like this one from Amazon. I know this stage is frustrating. I have been there all too many times. But remember that it is not the end of the world and you can always get back on track can help reduce stress. You got this!
As 2022 approaches and you are coming up with your goals for the upcoming year remember to keep yourself in mind. You know what you are capable of and what works best for you! If you are retrying a goal from last year, reflect on what went wrong and what you can do differently this year! You are your best teacher in how to be your best self! One last thing, don't let the completion or neglect of a goal define your year. Because in reality, we are constantly improving and working on goals not just year to year but throughout our whole lives!
You got this!!
Check out these additional awesome products on Amazon designed to help you achieve your resolutions!