January is the month of resolutions. It's a great time to look back on the year and see where you are, and were you want to make changes. Unfortunately getting a resolution to stick is not as easy as making one.
Recent research shows that while 52% of participants in a resolution study were confident of success with their goals, only 12% actually achieved their goals. A separate study in 2007 by Richard Wisemen from the University of Bristol showed that 78% of those who set New Year resolutions fail.
That seems a little daunting. So lets look at some of the things you can do to make your Resolution last.
1. Set Goals. Instead of saying, "I want to lose weight." Set measurable goals such as losing 1lb per week or fitting into a certain outfit.
2. Make a practical plan. What specific steps are you going to take to reach this goal? For example, I am going to exercise for one hour on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7am.
3. Share your goals with others. Research has shown that people who have support and accountability are more likely to be successful.
4. Write it down. Seeing your goals and plan in black and white makes them more concrete. Posting reminders around can help keep you on track.
5. Don't get discouraged if you slip up. Rome wasn't built in a day, and it takes time to change thoughts and habits. If you divert, don't beat yourself up, just get back on track.
6. Remember why this goal is important. Make it very personal. If you want to get healthy write down reasons why. Keep these visible, so in a moment of weakness you can remind yourself.
Have any other ideas? I would love to hear them! Feel free to post.
Have a happy, healthy New Year!
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