“Setting Realistic New Year’s Resolutions: 8 Tips for lasting Change”
"Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.”
- Brad Paisley
The start of a new year brings with it a desire for change. It is a time to reflect, set goals and imagine the life you want to create. Let’s face it, often our best laid intentions fizzle out before February. It could be because we are too vague or too ambitious, or perhaps they do not align with our authentic values and priorities. So, this year, let’s do it differently. Here are some practical tips for setting realistic resolutions that lead to growth and lasting change.
1. Before setting goals, reflect on the past year
What worked well? What didn’t?
What areas of your life brought you joy, and which ones felt out of balance?
What lessons did you learn that can help shape your goals for the year ahead?
What are 3 things you want to carry forward from the holidays and 3 things you want to leave behind?
Honest reflection is the first step in creating meaningful resolutions.
2. Select one or two measurable goals & make them detailed and achievable
Examples:
“Exercise 30 minutes, five times a week” vs “Get in shape”
“Read 12 books, 1 per month this year” vs “Read more books”
“Put $200 per month in savings” vs “Save money”
“Write in a daily gratitude journal” vs “Be happier”
3. Align your goals with your values
Do these goals truly matter to you?
Will these goals help you to live the life you are trying to create?
Where is your motivation to be successful coming from, is it internal or external?
4. Break Goals into Manageable Steps
Large goals can feel overwhelming, break them into smaller actionable steps.
Examples:
“Practicing new dialogues weekly” vs “Learn a new language”
“Commit to writing 15 minutes / day” vs “Write a book”
5. Track your progress by making yourself accountable
Enlist a friend or support group for periodic check-in’s.
Use a calendar or a checklist system; the act of completing a task can be motivating.
6. Be flexible and adjustable
Understand that goals can be adjusted due to challenges or opportunities. Life can be unpredictable, and a rigid resolution can lead to frustration. Be kind to yourself if you have s setback. Look at where you started December 31st, acknowledge the progress so far, and move forward.
7. Celebrate the WINS
Change is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your milestones, big or small, and use them as motivation to keep growing and moving forward. Remember that progress, no matter how small is still progress.
8. Prioritize Rest and Recovery:
The hustle and bustle of the holidays can leave us emotionally and physically drained. Focus on restoring balance by:
getting enough sleep
eating healthy
establishing a “comfort ritual” such as a quiet walk, meditating, reading or just relaxing with an herbal tea.
This year, instead of setting resolutions that feel like a chore, focus on creating goals that inspire and energize you. By taking a thoughtful and realistic approach, you can build a foundation for meaningful, lasting change.
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