From Resolutions to Reality

Make your resolutions specific and measurable so there’s no wiggle room when it comes to knowing whether or not you’ve accomplished your goals. “I will take a walk that lasts at least 20 minutes on at least two days every week” or “I will put at least $25 into my savings account after receiving every paycheck” or “I will donate at least one hour each month to a community service that helps people in need,” instead of “I will exercise more” or “I will save more” or “I will volunteer my time more.”
3 to 5 resolutions at most! They should be simply stated and easy to remember.
Write your resolutions down and carry them with you in your purse or wallet. Writing down your goals makes it much more likely that you’ll follow through.
Make your resolutions achievable, not overly ambitious. Notice that above I wrote “at least 3 days each week” instead of “every day.” Setting overly ambitious resolutions is a recipe for disappointment, frustration, and giving up.
Have a check-in conversation with yourself at least once a week. If you haven’t followed through on a goal, review the obstacles that contributed to this. See this review as a learning experience and use what you’ve learned to help you get back on track.
Tell people who love and respect you what you’ve resolved to do and encourage them to ask how you’re doing at achieving your goals and bug you, in the nicest possible way, about following through. This kind of loving accountability can work wonders.
Use all available supports. If you are an employee and saving money is a goal, look into the automatic payroll deduction and saving options that your employer may offer. If moving more, better nutrition, meditation, learning a language, musical instrument, or some other skill is on your list, look into the apps and classes that are available. Consider hiring a coach if you have the means to do so.
Give yourself small rewards as you follow through, even if this only means taking a moment to congratulate yourself. Savoring our achievements encourages us to keep going.
If you are a parent, make sure to let your child know what you’re up to. Knowing that they are rooting for you will help you keep on track. You will also be providing great role-modeling for them on how to work toward personal goals.
It’s important to note that very small, easily achievable behavior changes often spark even more significant changes. Success at making small positive changes in our behavior fuels the self-esteem and motivation that leads to bigger changes.

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