At the beginning of each year, many of us start out with good intentions. New year, a fresh start. Especially after the year we have had, we deserve it. However, many of us lose our enthusiasm after January.
The beginning of a new year also entails setting new goals to achieve. Whether we want to improve our health, lifestyle, or finances, we make a list of New Year’s resolutions and promise to make them a priority.
However, most of us lose the inspiration to reach those goals soon after the year starts. If this sounds remotely like you or someone you know, here are 5 tips on how to stick with your resolutions in 2021.
1. Start small and grow as the year goes.
When many of us think about what we want the most we end up setting ambitious goals. These are often unrealistic and may lead to an inevitable loss of motivation.
For example, if one of your goals this year Is to lead a healthier lifestyle or get fit, do not commit to working out 7 days a week. You will soon be overwhelmed and end up not working out at all. Start with a more realistic commitment such as 3 hours a week, then work your way up from there. If you achieve the 3 hours, great. If you do more than 3 hours, even better.
2. Plan your goals and write them down.
“A goal without a plan is just a wish”. It has been said that people who write down their goals are more than likely to achieve them. This should apply to your New Year’s resolutions as well. Seeing your goals written down on paper, in your daily calendar, or a useful app will help you stay on track.
3. Reflect on how your goal is going at the beginning or end of each month.
Many of us lead busy lives, it can be quite daunting to achieve a new goal. However, if you track them each month, you are more likely to achieve them. Set pre-determined questions to ask yourself. How did it go, what made you consistent, where did you fail and what can you change to ensure you succeed in the next month?
4. Set flexible timelines to achieve your goals.
As a way to keep you accountable, setting realistic timelines for your goals is a sure way. You will have something to aim for and will feel great once you achieve it within that time. However, do not be rigid when setting your timelines. Be flexible as to not become overwhelmed.
5. Sit yourself down and ask why you want to achieve certain goals.
Everyone knows that New Year’s resolutions are a trend. And trends come and go. Ask yourself why you started a New year’s resolution in the first place. Are you just jumping on the bandwagon because it is a new year or is this something that you genuinely want to achieve? Do not allow yourself to be pressured by the internet, friends, or family. Understanding WHY you want to do something will help you unpack whether this fits in with the life you want to live.
If you are setting New Year’s resolutions because you truly believe they will be of immense benefit to you, you’re more likely to commit.
