A new year is an opportunity to start fresh. The prospect fills people with hope and inspiration, and with the belief that change is possible. At least on some conscious level, you’ve probably said to yourself: “this year, I’m going to…” You’ve made a decision to do something in 2014 that you weren’t able to do in 2013. You’ve made a resolution. And here we are, two weeks into 2014, entering the window of time where gym regulars are breathing a sigh of relief as ‘resolutioners’ gradually stop showing up. Maybe you’ve made some progress toward your New Year’s resolution or maybe not; whether you need to get started or keep going, here are some important tips to help you keep your New Year’s resolution:
1. Write It Down
The power of the written word cannot be denied. There’s something about clearly stating what it is you want to do that makes it so much more real. Keep in mind that being specific is important. Don’t just say, “I want to lose weight”. Instead, specify how much weight you want to lose. And by when. Providing yourself with exact parameters is the first step toward achieving your resolution.
2. Make It A Priority
Sacrifices will have to be made. Perhaps your resolution was to improve your GPA. Realize that in order for this to be realized, it has to displace something else on your list of priorities. Maybe you’ll have to spend one less night with your friends to get in one more night of studying. Recognize what your priorities are and what they should be for your resolution to be achieved.
3. Make A Plan.
Decide when you are going to make time to work on your resolution. Section off regular blocks of time in your schedule, keeping in mind that frequency is key. Part of planning effectively is also knowing exactly what you’re going to do during this time and having any necessary materials prepared.
4. Remind Yourself Why
You’re probably going to get discouraged at some point. That doesn’t mean you should give up on your resolution. It just means that you’re human, and that you need a little reminder of why this was your resolution in the first place. Take 10 minutes to reassess why this resolution was important to you and how it will benefit you in the long run.
5. Realize That You Can’t Always Wait for The New Year
In a month or two, when your resolutions for 2014 may (or may not) have become a thing of past, you might fleetingly think to yourself: “I’ll start saving up next year” or “I’ll quit smoking next year”. While I am all for New Year’s Resolutions, I think it’s also important to realize that waiting on the New Year to begin something new is entirely pointless. This is not the only time to make a change in your life. Having a New Year’s resolution is a fun way to get something started, but there is no window of time exclusive to making a resolution. Resolutions can be made in any month, on any day. Just make sure you keep them!
Photos Retrieved From:
http://www.netlz.com/seo-blog/2013/12/29/new-years-letter-2014/