New Year is a great impetus for a new beginning. Human beings are always a work in progress on that everlasting path of self-improvement. It is a great start to the new year to make a list of things one wants to improve in the coming year, however the trick is to set oneself on a path toward success.
One strategy is patience. It takes time, repetition, and persistence to create new habits. Many have heard of the 21-day rule, but it turns out it’s a myth. Committing to a positive change for 21-days will lay down a good foundation for a new routine, but it isn’t a cure-all.
Tips to making resolutions:
1. Know thyself
You are unique, and if everything worked for everybody the world would be a perfect place. Set goals that match your potential and personality. Knowing what inspires you and what your Achilles heel is will get you to cross the finish line. Note: there is no finish line. The stuff of resolutions are usually long-term and possibly permanent changes.
2. Ditch deprivation
If you are looking to exchange a bad habit for a good habit, focus on the positives of the change. If this pertains to a healthier lifestyle take note of what foods, exercise, etc. makes you feel great. You boost your chance of success when the balance of pluses and minuses tips enough to make adopting a new behavior more attractive than standing in place.
3. Salute the obstacles
There will be obstacles and setbacks, but try looking at them as signposts instead of roadblocks. There is a Samuel Beckett quote, “Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.” In its actual context the sentiment is much darker, however out of context it is a reminder that failure is part of success. So each time you fail look at it as a step toward the goal. Failure is the best teacher as to what doesn’t work, so learn the lesson and move forward.
4. Don’t rely on others to get you where you’re going
Asking for support from others and declaring your bigger goals to friends and family are great strategies for success. However, you are the ultimate wind beneath your own wings. Relying on others moves them to a starring role from a supporting one – be the star of your own motivation.
5. You can do this.
You can. Just keep saying “I know I can, I know I can!” and you’ll get up that hill and keep building on that success.
