A
A
A
As another year comes to a close, you may be thinking a lot about what you want to accomplish in the next one. New Year’s resolutions may be at the top of your mind, but whether or not you tend to accomplish them is another. It is no secret that over half of all resolutions fail. But, in 2022, you do not have to be one of those people who makes a goal that they cannot keep. So, what’s the secret to doing so? Read on.
When it comes to resolutions, pick one that aligns with you. And, importantly, make sure it is doable. Many resolutions fail since they are not done with intention, are vague, are based on what society says or are made without a realistic plan. Make sure they are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Bound.
What do each of those things mean?
Read More »
Specific: Make a goal that is not vague. For instance, say you “want to lose five pounds in three months,” not just that you want to lose weight. Have a goal and decide in which time period you want to meet it. This will keep you accountable.
Measurable: Regardless of whether or not you want to lose a few pounds or finally learn how to swim, record and measure your progress. Write in a journal or on an app, or have a friend or family member keep you accountable. Or, take photos or videos if that is relevant to whatever you are trying to accomplish. Taking the extra minute to review those and your notes will also force you to think on a deeper level about what you have done – and what you hope to do. Aim to record your progress on a regular basis. About once a week should be sufficient.
Achievable: Big goals are good, but so are ones you can reach. Taking too small of a step may not make you feel accomplished, while too big of a goal may leave you frustrated and down. In the worst of cases, not meeting your goal may spur feelings of discontent and trickle down into your relationships with loved ones…not what you want. So, pick something you actually have a chance at reaching. For instance, aim to go to two month’s worth of swim lessons and learn some basic strokes, not be able to break records in the pool, have perfect dive form and take a lifeguarding course when you have barely been in the water.
Relevant: Evaluate if you are making a goal that reflects you and really matters. Think about what you value, and do not make any goals out of self-hate or doubt. That way, your mind and others can rally around the cause and help you make your dreams a reality.
Time-Bound: Putting a time limit on your goals helps motivate you to not let them fall by the wayside. You can see the end on the other side, but you can also break a bigger goal up into smaller ones to stay motivated. Focus small to celebrate the wins and work towards the bigger ultimate goal.
Remember: Establishing habits can take years to effectively build, but starting is better than nothing! Now that you know a little more about SMART goals, what is the secret to resolutions? The secret is this: focus on one small thing. For instance, aim to get your library card and actually use it multiple times, not just read ten books a month if you barely have time to flip through a magazine. By starting small, you are increasing your chances of success of success, and, sometimes, that is all you need to start living a healthier life.
Healthy habit change is attainable and doable when done right, but you just have to believe that you can and you will make a switch for the better. Enlist a friend or family member to also have the same goal, if you tend to struggle with motivation. There is certainly strength in numbers! As you know more now than before you started reading, it is time to make sure resolutions you may actually accomplish. Good luck with the resolutions, and here’s to 2022!
