A resolution is defined as “a firm decision to do or not do something.” Ironically, that kind of rigidity can make follow-through even harder.
Think back on your past resolutions. How many did you actually complete? Now think about the ones you didn’t and why. Were they unrealistic in some way, like not having enough time, feeling overwhelmed from the start, or not having a true commitment behind them?
That last commitment, is the most important. When you genuinely commit to something, you’re far more likely to follow through. That’s the first thing you must establish if you want to stick to a New Year’s goal (or resolution, if you prefer calling it that). Next, break your goal into manageable steps, daily, weekly, or whatever rhythm fits your lifestyle while still honoring a healthy work/life balance.
And lastly, yes, you guessed it, commit to seeing it through.
Here are three of my New Year’s goals and how I plan to execute them:
1. Be grateful every day.
Each morning, before getting out of bed, I’ll name one thing I’m grateful for.
2. Write every day.
I’ll commit to writing a minimum of 200 words daily, whether it’s a blog post, journaling my thoughts, or finally working on the book I’ve had in mind for years.
3. Get dressed every day.
Working from home has made me a little lazy with my appearance. Most days I lounge in workout clothes. So I’m committing to finishing my workout by 9 a.m. and getting dressed shortly after—even if it’s simply showering, putting on jeans and a T-shirt, and grooming my hair.
Once you develop a consistent routine, you begin forming a habit, something you’ll eventually do without thinking.
For example, if your goal is to lose 40 pounds this year, start small. Aim to lose the first 10 pounds in three months by cutting down on sugar, walking after dinner three times a week, skipping dessert, or reducing one carb at one meal. Once you reach that milestone, add on another small, doable goal for the next three months. Breaking your larger goal into smaller steps throughout the year increases your chances of success.
I hope this helps! If you’d like support breaking down your goals into manageable steps, comment below. Be blessed, good luck, and have a wonderful year!