The conversation around New Year's Resolutions is a nuanced one. Resolution advocates jump at the chance to set new goals, curate vision boards and reinvent themselves. They're opportunists thrilled for a chance to start (and hopefully end) the year on a positive note.
Others don't view resolutions so fondly, considering them more of a setup to inevitable failure. And they aren't necessarily wrong. A study completed by John C. Norcross, professor of psychology, states that 43% of people quit their resolutions before January ends. But, still, experts say keeping resolutions is possible. It all depends on the approach and mindset you establish on day one.
1. Take Small Steps
While transforming your body, mind or health in 365 days is enticing, the American Psychological Association suggests that changing one behavior at a time is more effective than implementing multiple major lifestyle changes at once. Some progress is better than none. Stay open to the fact that some of your goals may require more than a year to achieve. Most probably do. Try breaking major goals into a few smaller ones, then reframe your thinking so that every year gets you one step closer to reaching them.
2. Establish New Routines
Whether you want to start new healthy habits or stop old unhealthy ones, your day-to-day life will be impacted. Atlanta-based psychologist Dion Metzger, M.D., shared the three-step approach she gives her clients with Real Simple Magazine. The steps are simple: Believe, Predict, Start. Believe you can change, predict and plan how the change may impact you and get started right away!
3. Hold Yourself Accountable
Share your intentions with other people. Whether it's family, friends, social media or a licensed professional, speaking your commitment into existence makes it real. We're more likely to take encouragement from others to heart. Plus, there's a good chance you share a few goals with those around you. Working on them together can create a sense of togetherness and drive determination.
If you're serious about sticking to your goals, the American Psychological Association recommends investing a little time and money into getting professional help, and local experts like Amy Head are a great place to start. After all, you are your most valuable asset.
When it comes to New Years Resolutions, commit to a decision and not an emotion.
Change Your Mindset
Amy Head, life coach and mental health expert in East Cobb, says a simple mindset shift can help set you up for success when setting goals.
Change the word "resolution" to something more permanent like "commitment"
"Resolutions are rooted in a desire for something to change. And, as soon as our desire wanes, our willingness to stick to the resolution wanes. Commitments are rooted in a decision to change something. We tend to see our commitments through even though we may not always feel like it." - Amy Head