Why do New Year's Resolutions Fail?
This is a question that talk shows ask psychologists every year and basically it's because people make these lofty resolutions without making realistic plans for achieving them.
Last year I made a resolution and actually kept it - that's because of two things - I broke down the goals and I also did personal development.
I decided I wanted to lose weight, feel better, get fitter and feel stronger - basically I wanted to be a healthier me.
Step one was taking Arbonne's 30 days to healthy living and beyond starting on January 1st. I wasn't sure how I would feel on it, but I knew I had to start with something and it was only for 30 days! It was amazing so I took a week off at the beginning of February to celebrate my 5th wedding anniversary and then undertook another 30 days to healthy living plan.
All told I did the plan 5 times and in between I took an 80/20 approach which is what is recommended. So I basically went by the principles of the plan during the week and ate what I wanted on the weekend.
I had decided that I wanted to lose half my goal weight by my birthday - which I did before working on building my strength during the second half of the year. Off to the gym I started going and I even had fun participating in Steptember with my workmates.
I haven't actually met my goal weight, but I feel fantastic, I am stronger, healthier and fitter so in my mind my resolution was successful.
A big part of doing this was setting little goals along the way and doing personal development.
Personal development can mean something different to everyone and it's all about finding what works for you. I read some personal development books (including The Magic which again breaks down things to daily 'tasks'), listened to some Soundcloud broadcasts (usually while on the treadmill) and every day I told myself that I was strong, healthy and fit.
Affirmations were something that I had never given much credence before, but they are a great way to start the day and my first affirmation of the day everyday is "I am strong, healthy and fit". I don't know why saying that keeps me on track, but it does because to be honest I have days when I don't feel like going to the gym for my session, but I just repeat "I am strong, healthy and fit" and I do it anyway.
What are the Most Popular New Year's Resolutions?
Health related resolutions are apparently most popular from losing weight, getting fit or giving up bad habits.
Next people seem to want to work on their finances - getting out of debt is a big one. Again this one is best done by setting yourself baby steps and this way you'll find it much easier to stick to. One of my favorite books to help if you're trying to get financial control of your life is the Barefoot Investor.
Finally the third thing people seem to want to work on is themselves with a lot of people wanting to undertake some form of personal development which as I've mentioned is often key to success with other resolutions too.
Will You Be Making a New Year's Resolution This Year?
I'd love to know if you're making resolutions this year and if you want to share them that would be great. Sometimes making a resolution public also helps to keep you accountable so either post here or get yourself an accountability partner!
I will be continuing on with my bid to be healthier when I hit 50 (May 2019, where has the time gone?) than I was when I was 40! I am also setting myself the goal to double my income this year by building on my network marketing business and my affiliate marketing income. I will let you know how I do, but now over to you ...
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New Year's Goals or Resolutions always do tend to fall to the wayside, I think for the reasons you stated, Lou. Breaking them down to small goals or steps along the way does help as it keeps the 'Big Picture' from becoming overwhelming. My goal is to lose 10 lbs. and firm up a bit with some weight lifting and walking. I did lose 10 lbs. in 2018 and now want to get that other ten off. :) Best of luck to both of us. Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteWell done on your weight loss to date and good luck this year :)
DeleteI never got into the habit of making resolutions for the new year. I do set goals to help me be more productive. That seems to work better for me.
ReplyDeleteFor a long time that's what I did Barb, but I think the fact that the company I work for closes down for 2 weeks over the Christmas/ New Year period it just seems a perfect time for me to set resolutions again.
DeleteI don't make resolutions, but I work hard at getting things done. I make small goals everyday and try to get each one done as well as I can. Health issues seem to be hampering me this year. Not my health but my mother's health. So I'm learning to work around how she is doing. It's not easy, but at her age, necessary. Hoping the new year gives me a bit of a break, so I can get back to writing on a regular basis......
ReplyDeleteSmall goals is definitely the way to go, when my dad was sick I would make weekly goals and just see how he was each day - more important to have time with your family than anything else in my opinion. Hope you get a little break though Olivia.
DeleteYour discipline paid off, congratulations. I'm resisting a new years resolution, but there are things kicking around inside my head right now. My mind is very motivated, my body is saying whoa girl. So I'll find a balance hopefully soon.
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