Make a Plan to Aid in Achieving Goals Set in new Year Resolutions
The practice of making New Year's resolutions dates back to ancient Rome and the god Janus. Janus had two faces; one looked back at the past while the other looked to the future. The people made resolutions in honor of Janus and the new year. The resolutions were of a moral or ethical nature; one pledged to be a better person, kinder to his neighbor or more prudent in his spending.
Today's resolutions aren't much different in nature as people vow to improve their lives by losing weight, eating more healthily or quitting smoking. They vow to spend less and save more, go to the gym regularly or work harder at their jobs.
The first few days or even weeks the determination to maintain the new lifestyle is strong, but over time obstacles may break down that resolve. Chocolate cakes and cigarettes are too readily available. Getting to the gym becomes a hassle and work is just too unpleasant to inspire anything more than getting through the day.
Keeping New Year's resolutions throughout the year takes willpower, but it also requires patience, patience with one's self to learn how to become this new person.
Don't just make a list; make a planA long list of resolutions resembles a to-do list, as if each item could be checked off when completed. Instead of a list of broad, undefined items, focus on two or three specific goals and make a plan on how to achieve those goals. For example, rather than listing "Lose Weight, Exercise More, Eat Better," devise an approach that breaks down those resolutions into short term goals.
Rather than list "Lose Weight," as a resolution, resolve to lose a defined number of pounds, starting with one pound a month for three months and then increasing that goal over the remaining months. The resolution then becomes a series of manageable goals, rather than one overwhelming task.
Write the plan downSit down and write out a detailed plan on how to accomplish the goals a New Year's resolution demands. Use a calendar and set up target dates to reach goals. Brainstorm ideas on different approaches that are available to obtain those goals, considering such options as the "buddy system," in which two or three people with similar resolutions work on them together.
Putting the plan on paper transforms the resolution from a verbal utterance to a personal contract. Once it's written out, it becomes something more than an option; it becomes a commitment to one's self.
Keep writingPurchase a diary or set one up on the computer and keep track of the progress toward each goal and toward achieving the final goal set by the resolution. Don't become discouraged if a goal is delayed or the plan requires altering. Simply adjust to the new plan and work toward the goals. Celebrate the wins and learn from the setbacks. By the end of the year, new resolutions will be far less intimidating and far more achievable.
