Getting into shape, saving money and giving up smoking are on top of the most popular New Year’s resolutions, but they also lead the list of broken ones. Do you know why? It’s because they are a lot harder to keep than one would imagine.
Are you among those who enthusiastically make a resolution every year but then fail to stick to it? Don’t worry, you are not alone. According to statistics, only 21.4% of people manage to lose weight, 8.5% makes better financial decisions and 7.1% quits smoking, while the majority pays no or very little commitment to their promise.
How great it would be if you could finally achieve what you plan?! This year, go for something that you are able to stick to, and success will follow. Here is how to set your fail proof dream goals!
First of all, stay realistic when you define your resolution; consider that going from 0 to 100 simply won’t work. Make little changes at a time, don’t dive into an extreme diet or start intense exercise, because if it won’t go well, you can easily lose your motivation. Read more on healthy eating and try some easy recipes which would actually result in a weight-loss in the long run. Integrate exercise to your life: it is already a good start if you walk the stairs instead of the escalator when possible, or work out 2 or 3 days a week.
Keep in mind that while some people can easily give up smoking, it is a real struggle for many. Find your reason which will be a strong enough motivating power. The ultimate trick is to take little steps because they can get you further: start by smoking 1-2 cigarettes less every second day. It doesn’t sound so hard to do, or does it? By the passing of time, you will feel ready to move forward.
Do you want to overcome a fear of yours? First, determine the triggers! The way to grow into your highest potential is to step outside of your comfort zone. As the saying goes, what doesn’t kill you make you stronger, but the general rule can be applied here too: take tiny steps. If you have a fear of heights, maybe bungee jumping isn’t the first option to think of. Don’t lose focus on the fact that you shouldn’t miss out on opportunities only because you are afraid to try. Do some research, because it can be helpful: did you know for instance that caffeine consumption may be a contributing factor to anxiety related to acrophobia? Cut caffeine from your diet, and you are already closer to reaching your aim.
Now that you know some of the tricks to making fail proof resolutions, here are some of our favourites that you can easily stick to.
1# Do something every day, or learn something new to make yourself a better person! Learning to play an instrument or studying a new language is fun, so go for it! The New Year is a new chapter in your life, make the best of it!
#2 Pick up a new hobby, because it improves your ability to focus, lowers your stress level and also boosts your brain power. Be creative, and don’t be afraid of failure; as long as you enjoy doing something, it is a win-win situation.
#3 Spend more time in the nature! Fresh air is undeniably good for the brain and boosts your immune system, while experiencing the beauties of nature would make you happier.
#4 Enjoy the little things, because this is how you can live life to the fullest. Setting too big goals is not necessarily making you happy, but quite the opposite. Learn to enjoy and appreciate life’s simple pleasures, it’s easy!
#5 Boost your confidence! Probably now you are thinking: oh yes, but how? You can start by writing a list of all the things you believe you are good at, and give credit yourself for what you do well. Remember: confidence is linked to success, and also, research shows that confident people happier and more relaxed too.