The new year is coming. Are you setting goals for the upcoming year? Have you created a plan on how you are going to meet your goals? Are you committed to seeing them through to the end? If you need a little help getting the ball rolling on your New Year Resolutions, then you should read our tips now!
So many people have difficulty making their New Year resolutions stick. But you don’t need to join that group. Nataxja Cini, a professional therapist and founder of Family-Therapy, is here with advice on planning and getting support to create goals and resolutions that will last the whole year.
New Year’s Day Shouldn’t Be the Only Time to Make Resolutions
You can set goals and make personal changes any day of the year. The calendar date shouldn’t pressure you into making significant life changes. Every day presents a new opportunity to start working towards the changes you desire. For instance, some find September, with the start of the new school year, a more fitting time for personal commitments. Nataxja says that she makes small changes throughout the year, adapting her goals with the seasons. For instance, in the heart of Ottawa’s winter, she is determined to spend more time outdoors despite the chilly Canadian weather.
Understand Your Desire to Change
Nataxja’s advice is to reflect on why you’re making a change. Is it genuinely for yourself, or are you feeling pressured by external influences? Understand the reasons behind your goal and how it will benefit you. Take the time to evaluate if you’re genuinely prepared for this change. Sometimes, people struggle with change because of fear or uncertainty. Addressing these feelings is the first step towards making lasting changes.
Planning for Change
Start by mapping out your goals for the upcoming year. Just like Olympic athletes train for years, break down your resolutions into manageable steps. Remember, even the most significant achievements begin with a single step. Be patient; it takes approximately 21 days to form a new habit. Don’t be discouraged if progress isn’t immediate. Your friends and family will notice your changes in due time. Also choose a date in the future to look back on your resolutions and determine if this approach is working for you. Sometimes you just need to make slight adjustments that might work better for you. For example, maybe working out in the morning really isn’t your thing and a lunch or evening work out might better suit you.
Write Down Your Resolutions
Nataxja encourages you to put your goals in writing because it increases your likelihood of success. Post them where you’ll see them daily, whether it’s on your calendar, bathroom mirror, smartphone, or journal. Reading or reciting them regularly reinforces your commitment. Use positive language when setting your goals. For instance, say “I will do X” rather than “I won’t do this anymore.” Additionally, visualize the positive impact achieving your goals will have on your life.
Create a Support System to Help You Achieve Your Goals
Sharing your intentions with someone increases your chances of success. Choose your audience wisely; confide in those who genuinely want to see you succeed. Consider finding an accountability partner who will support your progress and challenge you without being overly critical. Therapists and online support groups can also provide valuable assistance in overcoming obstacles and staying on track with your goals. Being part of a team or group that gets together whether virtually or in person can also help keep you on track.
No matter when or how you plan change its about doing changes for yourself that will help you feel better about yourself. Make small manageable changes. And remember to plan to fail sometimes. DO realize we are all going to have days that don’t support our new resolutions. Make sure to have a backup plan or go easy on yourself and start again tomorrow.
