1. Make a plan
Rome was not built in day, start small, and slowly grow up to your full goal. I know you just want to get started, but cutting something out, or adding anything new to your routine will not happen cold turkey. By creating an actual, tangible step-by-step process, you are visualizing the change that needs to be made while consciously recognizing it is not going to happen overnight. Try filling out a blank calendar online or making a timeline to hang in your room. Whatever it may be, make sure you can see it and it draws your attention (even think about putting it in multiple places – including your planner). “I forgot” will no longer be an excuse!
2. Find a buddy
Enlist a friend who either shares the same end goal, or is already enacting the change you wish to attain and share your methods. This will not only keep you excited, but will also keep the motivation flowing, knowing that there will be another person holding you accountable to make said change. Before you begin though, make sure you both create some sort of understanding that everyone moves at their own pace, and there should be zero shaming for not moving quickly enough. Every single person is different, and reaching your shared goal at different times is more than okay! You should only hear elated, motivational, words coming from your partner and vice versa!
3. Be realistic
This may be self-explanatory, but a lot of people forget that we are only human. You know yourself and what you are capable of, if you haven’t worked out in months, then your first attempt at running probably shouldn’t be trying to run 5 miles, for example. If you are currently getting a C in your class, aim for B first rather than an A right away, etc.. Reflect this gradual goal making in your plan, you are more likely to achieve subtle and varied goals over a set amount of time rather than one large goal in the distant future.
4. Reward yourself periodically
You aced a job interview? You didn’t fail that test? You went out on Friday instead of staying home to Netflix by yourself? Anytime you take a step in the right direction, towards achieving your resolutions, or just keeping them going, find a way to show appreciation towards yourself. These rewards should be related to your goals (if applicable). For example, if you are getting fit, avoid rewarding yourself with food or treats, instead try a massage! Trying to stop biting your nails? Buy that new collection of OPI nail polish, and once you go “x” number of weeks without any infractions, get a manicure! Contemplate telling your goals and set rewards to your buddy from tip two so they can hold you accountable and you will in turn have someone to congratulate you at each triumph. Also consider putting these on your plan so they are in sight at every step of the way.
5. Reassess your resolutions part way through
After a significant amount of time has passed, re evaluate your end game and goals dependent upon where you’ve come thus far. If you’re kicking butt and know this is something you can keep up, look at your current end goal and maybe increase the stakes. In relation to that, if you’re halfway through and realizing this is much harder than you originally planned, think about extending your end goal date. Again, the more realistic and well thought out they are, the more enjoyable this experience will be. This is also a reminder to yourself that change is never easy.
6. STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS
This is the hardest one of them all. It has been wired into our brains from such an early age that the only way to track our success is to measure it to those of the people around us. I realize that this is particularly hard when you are in college and constantly surrounded by people of the same age and place in life, but if you consciously make an effort to stop said comments to yourself, the habitual cycle of feeling not up to par, or better than others will eventually stop (or at least slow down a bit).
7. Don’t beat yourself up over an unintentional cheat day
We all have slip ups, remember to keep some perspective and know that this doesn’t mean you failed. It was probably needed for you to make the healthy change. Things happen for a reason.
8. Switch up your routine – think outside the box
If you’re getting fit, and doing so via the gym, try hiking or rollerblading for a day instead. Going to budget your money better? Try doing something tangible rather than simply creating a budget; start couponing! Want to be more social? Go dancing or join a random club on campus! This is not only going to re-excite you for your mission, but it is good practice in general for learning to stretch your comfort zone in the smallest of ways. In this type of setting, you can still maintain some control.
9. Find a model of success
Do some research and find someone who has successfully accomplished what you are doing as well. Whether they are a family friend or a celebrity, use them as inspiration. Make sure it’s someone you look up to and respect. If they are doing it and I want to be like them, then accomplishing this will help me gain that same confidence that I aspire to emulate.
10. Make sure this is something you really want
Not everyone is going to have the same priorities, let alone make resolutions at all. This whole process is one that will be neither easy, nor quick, so devotion to your goal is a must! If you are ready to fully commit to making this happen, there should be zero excuses for making it happen. Nothing is too out of reach. Just really think on it!
YOU GOT THIS!