Resolutions

Are you thinking about making the New Year a fresh start? Not so fast! Some say New Year’s resolutions are a waste of time as they are nothing more that a long list of “should dos” that we don’t take to heart. Make this year different. Take time to plan your resolutions carefully and avoid the post New Year let-down. Plan them carefully this year and choose realistic goals that you can keep.

A long list of resolutions will set you up for failure. Think carefully about what you’d like to change. Choose only one or two goals as your resolutions. Be honest with yourself. Your goals should be achievable and realistic.

You can write them down to help you identify and decide upon your goals. Initially, you go over the year; what were the high points and low points? What were your successes? What made you proud? Think about where you can improve.


As you consider possible changes, think carefully about each one. Is it realistic? Is it achievable? How do you get there? You can break it into small steps and think about how to make each small step. Rather than emphasize the long term goal, consider daily goals.

Keep track of your progress and reward your achievements. We tend to assume that success is its own reward, but change is difficult and often uncomfortable. Rewarding yourself will help you to make the change effective and last over the long haul. It can be a massage, facial or afternoon at the movies. Or just about anything like simply taking time to yourself to do whatever pleases you.

Once you have achieved your goal, maintain your success by continuing the small daily changes that helped you achieve your goal. For long term success, make those small changes part of your lifestyle, and make it a habit.