Tired of setting resolutions you don't follow through with? Me too! Let's learn some tips of how to set and follow through with goals in the blog below!
New Year's resolutions can be a great way to start the year with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. However, for many people, sticking to those resolutions can be a struggle. If you're one of those people, don't worry - you're not alone! Here are some tips to help you keep your New Year's resolutions.
Mindfully Reflect on the Past Year
First, reflect on the past year to help make mindful resolutions. Reflecting on the past year can be a great way to set yourself up for success in the new year. By taking the time to identify what worked well and what didn't, you can gain valuable insight into what you want to achieve in the future. Maybe you had a particularly productive month, or maybe you struggled with a particular task. Either way, by examining the past, you can learn from your successes and failures, and use that knowledge to make better goals for the future.
Make Your Goals S.M.A.R.T.
Then, make your goals specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely (SMART). One reason why many people struggle to keep their resolutions is because they set goals that are too ambitious. Instead, start with small, achievable goals that you can build on over time. For example, if your goal is to exercise more, start with a 10-minute walk every day and gradually increase the time and intensity. If you want to make a solid goal, go to my website in the downloads section and grab the free SMART Goal worksheet (www.myalpenglowtherapy.com/file-share). This can help you make a goal that is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
Accountability and Tracking Progress
Next, hold yourself accountable. Find a way to track your progress and hold yourself accountable. This could be through a journal, a tracking app, or by sharing your goals with a friend or family member. When you know that someone else is aware of your goals, you'll be more motivated to stick to them. Think of it as an accountabil-a-buddy, keep each other honest and on track with your goals and support one another. Once your goal is set, make a reoccurring event in your phone and title it 'review yearly resolutions', so that you can remind yourself to review your goals each month.
Progress Not Perfection
Another tip is to focus on the process, not just the outcome. Instead of just focusing on the end result, think about the steps you need to take to get there. Celebrate small victories along the way and don't beat yourself up if you have setbacks. Remember, progress is not always linear. Make sure you celebrate your successes along the way!
Ask for Support
Finally, don't be afraid to ask for support. Whether it's a friend, family member, or a professional, there is no shame in seeking support to help you achieve your goals. An example would be, asking a friend or family member to go to invite you on walks so you can help reach your goals. Remember, you're not in this alone and there are people who want to see you succeed.
All in all, keeping New Year's resolutions can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. If a goal ends up not being attainable, it's OK to adjust the goal, just make sure you are not compromising on the initial intention of the goal. By setting realistic goals, holding yourself accountable, focusing on the process, and seeking help when needed, you can make progress towards achieving your goals and have a successful year ahead.
Take the time this week to set some goals for yourself - big or small - and start working towards them today.
Your future self will thank you for it!