Resolutions are easily made and quickly abandoned, but I think it’s important to make them none-the-less. I believe in bettering oneself. I believe that the New Year brings a chance to start over, a clean slate. I don’t think the importance of resolutions is in the completing of the thing, or the progress you make because of it. I think the significance is the decision to even make a resolution. That’s where the magic happens. If you’re willing to make changes and you’re enthusiastic about the changes you’re making that means you’re already a new person.
I’ve always made resolutions, but rarely accomplished them, like many people all over the world. The New Year brings hope. As the year progresses and goals don’t get accomplished, we all lose that hope. So, you’ve made the decision to better yourself. Now, the hard part is keeping that flame alive. We have to figure out how to grow the spark inside ourselves in order for our accomplishments to not be for nothing. Being a better person, learning, taking up a new hobby, becoming healthier, and being happier – these are all obtainable goals. Here are some helpful tips:
1. Find an Outlet
Keep yourself accountable by writing down your thoughts, your progress, and your downfalls. You’re more likely to continue your resolutions if you are constantly reminding yourself why you’re doing it. If it’s important to you, you need to find a way to express it to the world, whether that’s through a journal, blog, or social media.
2. Surround Yourself with Positive People
This is hard. You build a life full of people, and some of those people aren’t great for you. Negativity from your so-called friends will only bring you down. Don’t let people who are stuck in their lives hold you back from bettering yourself.
3. Get Rid of the Baggage
The thoughts inside your head will tear you apart more than anything anyone else can say to you. You are your home – treat yourself well or you’ll find your house will quickly become run down.
4. Make No Excuses
I often find myself saying I’ll do something, and then arguing to myself about why I just can’t do it. I’ll tell myself that it can wait until tomorrow, but putting things off until tomorrow will not help you today. Remind yourself that you have to put in hard work to get results.
5. Give Yourself a Break
Nothing is easy in this world. Often, people equate failure with not being good enough. Failure is a necessity to growth. Smooth seas don’t make smart sailors. You have to navigate through the losses in order to achieve your ultimate goals.
My hope for 2016 is that more happiness and self-examination happen across the world. I hope each person has made a resolution – it’s not too late! Ask yourself if you’re happy with who you are and where you are. If not, find ways to become your ideal self. Let’s collectively make 2016 a year of positive changes.
