January 1, 2012 is less than seven days away, and the topic of conversation on a majority of lips this week is the infamous New Years Resolution. The Journal of Psychology reports that by January 7th, 22% of New Years resolvers have given up on their goal (www.sheknows.com). What’s worse, is that by March, over 50% of individuals have fallen off their New Years Resolution wagon!
Don’t worry, this isn’t a ranting and raving article about how terminally lazy I think the majority of the America is, or how sad I find it that 9 out of 10 people probably couldn’t commit to a resolution to save their life… I am here to encourage you!
YOU CAN DO IT!
You’ve heard that old familiar addage, “good things take time”… the same is true with any resolution or lifestyle change. It may be a long road back to the person you truly want to be- but do not use that as an excuse to give up at the first sign of discouragement! Read and apply these four rules for a successful start (and finish!) to the year 2012.
1. Create a Clear Vision
Making a dream board or keeping a vision poster hanging in your room may seem silly at first, but studies show that without a set vision, people are far less likely to make their New Years resolution anything more than a nice passing thought. Write down the things you want to accomplish this year, and be specific! For example, making a New Year’s Resolution that simply states “Eat Healthier” is far too broad. Healthy eating is a great goal, but when writing out a dream board, really dig deep for practical things you can keep yourself accountable for. A better resolution would be “eat green vegetables at every meal,” or “eat a fresh piece of fruit for dessert instead of chocolate ice cream”. Remember, “doing what you always do” and “sticking with what you are used to” causes you to veer off your ideal path in the first place. If you really want to make over an area of your life, it’s time to commit to measurable changes.
2. Schedule Your Success
Fill up you calendar or datebook with workout appointments. Set those appointments in stone like you would a visit to the dentist or a meeting with a high-profile client. Treat your workout appointments like you would a dinner date with a loved one. Only you have the power to re-prioritize your life! Fill your day with little reminders, and don’t leave any room for letting yourself off the hook! It will take time to grow accustomed to such a set schedule, but believe me, it is necessary.
3. Keep Track
A great way to gain momentum and receive positive feedback is to track your success (Hawthorne). If you are like a majority of people that have made a weight loss related resolution, take measurements of your body once every two weeks (on the same day) to see how you are coming along. Write the numbers down on your vision board with bright colors, celebrating your success! Being able to physically see yourself progressing toward your ultimate goal will give you the fuel you need when keeping your resolution seems more impossible than possible.
4. Find a Support System
Few people have the will-power or determination to accomplish anything apart from an encouraging community. Having your close friends and family members in your corner will make a world of difference. Make sure to choose your “team” wisely, and be honest with yourself in who the best partners will be. The long-term success you are craving will be the result of reflection and study. Don’t choose people that are quick to discourage and bring others down.
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