HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012! As another year rings in, most folks are preparing (either mentally or physically) to start the typical “New Year Resolutions” ritual. They have prepared their lists and, usually, start out STRONG in working on the goals. But then, after a few weeks, lose steam and motivation. With that said, is it WORTH even trying to make resolutions in the first place? Recent research tells us, YES!
It has been shown that 40 to 45% of American adults will make one or more resolutions for the coming year.
Top new years resolutions include: weight loss and/or more exercise and finally quitting the smoking habit. Just as popular are resolutions of committing to better money management or getting rid of old debts.
Here is a quick breakdown of how these resolutions are kept as the year progresses:
- past the first week: 75%
- past 2 weeks: 71%
- after one month: 64%
- after 6 months: 46%
While many who make new years resolutions do break them, research shows that making resolutions is still useful to do. People who explicitly make resolutions are 10 times more likely to meet their goals than people who don’t explicitly make resolutions. So how can we make and KEEP our resolutions? The answer is right between your ears!
1) It is great to create a list of resolutions, but it is even more important and powerful to visualize and affirm your goals. The power in clearly seeing your “end goal” keeps you motivated and helps to stay focused.
2) Keeping a daily journal of your progress will help to see how you are doing and quickly identify when you are losing steam! Also, if you are dealing with any mental blocks that may hinder meeting your resolutions, the act of journaling helps to get those “blocks” written down on paper so you can see and address them.
3) Be accountable. While it is great to rely on our own strength, it is sometimes even more powerful to have someone else hold us to our promises. And that includes promises we have made to ourselves. Share your resolutions with someone you trust and who will make sure you are staying on track.
As you start your New Year resolutions, make sure to spend just a few minutes each day to incorporate the above. Your own mind — thoughts, attitudes, and expectations — could make a BIG difference in the success or failure of meeting and KEEPING your resolution list.
Until next time…
Traci
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Doh! I’ve never actually made a new years resolution believe it or not. What’s funny is that keeping on top of the weight and exercise thing and better money management would among be some of my resolution priorities lol… just shows how similar we all are eh? I’m an Aussie btw…
Some good advice Traci – I’m resolving to be more resolved
Hey there, Graeme,
I am not an avid “new year resolution maker” either. While it is helpful (as research has learned/revealed) to make resolutions at the beginning of the year, the key really is in KEEPING them! Thanks for your comments and I am glad to hear that you are “resolving to be more resolved!”. I like that!
Blessings!
–Traci