As we bid 2015 goodbye, we say hello (from the other side) to 2016. A new year means a new years resolution is needed. But the question remains; how long will this one last? A month? A week? How about even a day? Here are three steps you need to follow in order to follow through with your 2016 New Years Resolution.
1. Make Goals that are attainable
This is the key to creating a resolution that will carry through to next year. If your goal is too broad, too crazy-over-the-top, or even too alike to last years, it may fall through. Before you even start writing down ideas, think about your past resolutions. Did they actually happen? Did you have enough time in your schedule to complete it? Were they financially feasible? If the answer to any of these questions was no, then think about another direction you wish to take with you resolution. If you didn't have enough time or money to exercise more, then decide to eat healthier, and if that also failed, then decide to limit your portion sizes and decrease the amount of meat and fatty foods you eat. This alone will help you lose weight.
Also, make sure that your goal is specific. Don't merely say "lose weight." Say something like "lose weight by eating healthier and using the stairs more."
2. Share Your Resolution(s)
Just like when writing your bucket list, you want to make sure the people you are closest to and those who motivate you know about your resolution. They will keep you accountable for whatever happens and will, in turn, motive you to finish them. I mean, it's not fun always having that one family member nag you about your resolution. Get it done or always be working on it, so that you can tell them to shove it.
This will also give you a chance to share resolutions with family and friends. If you and a close friend want to do they same thing, combine the fun. Either do it together, or make it a contest to see who can reach the certain goal first. What's better than a little friendly competition?
3. Reward Yourself
To stay motivated, reward yourself with something special. For every benchmark you complete, reward yourself with something that you normally wouldn't do. Be sure not to undermine your progress with your reward, however. If your resolution is to earn more money or decrease spending don't blow money on your reward. Go to the park or beach for a nice day with your family and/or friends.
If you decide to have a competition with a friend or relative, you can also make a reward for whoever finishes first. A good reward for competitions would be dinner on the loser.
Whatever your resolution may be, try to follow through with it this year. It will help build confidence in yourself and in any other goals you may have in life. Now go on and show 2016 what you are made of!
