Did you know that January 17th is the day that most people give up on their lofty New Years Resolutions?
That’s right only 17 days into the new year? Another statistic says that only 40% are still going strong at month six and another says that only 9% accomplish them at years end. Who knows which statistic is correct but it does seem clear that the majority who set resolutions or new goals at the beginning of the year fail to reach them.
Are you one of those who called it quits today? Are you wavering? What is the secret to actually accomplishing your New Years Resolutions?
To be transparent, I don’t set New Years Resolutions. We do evaluations every few months and set goals but I actually believe that every day is a day to start anew. I do love the fresh start of a new year but I’ve never been one to set big resolutions. BUT, if I do set a big goal this is how I think about it so that I will actually succeed at it.
Start with your values in mind
We did a family mission statement at one point. It helps us to filter all of our decisions, commitments and even goals through it. Is this goal going to move us forward to fulfilling the purpose we have for ourselves and our family? Does it fall in line with who you ARE, who you hope to be, and not just what you want to accomplish?
Do you know your WHY?
Why do you really want to accomplish this? What is driving this goal? For example, if you wanted to lose 20 lbs., that is a goal but it’s not the why behind it. Your why is what will keep you going on really hard days, keeps you disciplined and will drive you to reach it.
Your real why with that goal could be because you want to look in the mirror and feel confident and proud. You want your kids to watch you care for your body in a way that is healthy and teaches them it’s valuable. You want to reduce the risk of heart disease or diabetes so you can be around for your grandchildren and have energy to keep up with them. Your WHY has to drive you.
Be Realistic
If you set a goal that is far too lofty to reach then you’ll only become discouraged and quit. Perhaps you need to break that goal up into bitesize pieces or cut it in half. When you succeed you’ll be much more likely to set another goal and crush it.
Never Go It Alone
Enlist an accountability parter who will cheer you on, will join with you or at least will check in and see how it’s going. When you share the goal with someone else you are much more likely to accomplish it.
Celebrate the Wins Along the Way
I am one who will set a goal, meet it and then move right on to the next thing. It is so important to celebrate the victories along the way. Reward yourself for not giving up after day 17. When you hit month 3 celebrate and keep going.
Forget Perfection and Go for Progress
As a recovering perfectionist I have had to realize that just because I can’t do something perfectly doesn’t mean I shouldn’t do it. Progress over perfection. If you fail one day, get back up and start again the next. Be flexible, give yourself some grace and keep moving.
Whether you’re a resolution maker or not, I think these tips can be valuable in your week, your month and your year. Let’s work toward thriving one small step at a time.
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