Editorial Desk

New Year Resolutions: Making and KEEPING them!

It is that time of year again when we are looking forward to new beginnings. It is also that time of year again when seemingly every advertisement, social media post, or well-meaning loved one is quick to remind us that we are due for a refresh, a restart, or a rebrand. Are you making a resolution in the new year?

You might be asking yourself what your resolutions are for this year and how to make them meaningful. Making these with proper mental preparation and planning enhances chances of success. Here are some points to ponder. Good luck!

Pick the Right Resolution, think about what’s doable and be specific. You will surely give yourself your best shot at success when you set a goal that’s doable. Do this by looking inward and identifying things that could be changed or made better. You’re more likely to succeed if you clearly understand what “it” is.

Put it on your schedule. Spread your tasks out over the year. Plan precisely and spread out small, attainable tasks in detail over your next year’s calendar. Write to-do items for specific days and weeks. Make your new goals a priority and actually schedule them into your calendar. Think of these time blocks as important appointments.

Track your progress.

“If you can measure it, you can change it”. These measurements will be a source of motivation as you reflect on where you started and where you are. They will also help you to identify plateaus or “sticking points” in your progress so you can adjust your efforts. Ask yourself questions like “When?” “Where?” “How?” “How many hours a week will I dedicate to this goal?”

Have patience.

You must set realistic goals and realize that progress is never linear. Some people will see rapid gains only to hit resistance later in their efforts. For others, initial progress may be painfully slow, but then they suddenly achieve rapid breakthroughs. Making lasting changes takes time. Remember, the key to goal achievement is persistence, not perfection.