Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Hints for Making that New Year’s Resolution Last All Year

One third of January 2011 is already gone. Is your new year’s resolution long forgotten? If so, maybe you could use a little help. Here are some hints and tips for helping you stick to your resolution; and get the results you desire.

Give your resolution an overhaul. Maybe the problem is that your resolution is too broad or too vague. Saying “I will lose weight” isn’t specific enough. Saying “I will give up junk food” or “I will exercise three times a week” gives you a defined goal that is easier to achieve.

Record and review. Write your resolution down; and keep it in a place you will see every day. Constantly reminding yourself of your goal makes it easier to pass on that donut or get on the treadmill.

Limit the number of resolutions you tackle. It’s better to do one thing well than to do a lot of things poorly. Ultimately, if you have too many resolutions and none of them are turning out like you expected; you will lose interest and give up.

Be realistic about your goals. Don't set yourself up for failure. Lose 50 pounds in a week? Nope! Lose 10 pounds in a month? Better!

Make a plan. If your diet is loaded with junk food and your resolution is to give it up; does the thought of going cold turkey send you into a tizzy? Don’t think “I just can’t do it”; and get discouraged. Decide to give up just one item a day until your diet is junk food free.
Ask for help from friends and family. You’ll be surprised at how much easier reaching your goal will be. Maybe you have a friend or family member with the same goal; and the two of you can work together.

Surround yourself with good influences. If you’re trying to lose weight; don’t hang out with the friend that always eats at fast food restaurants. Tell all the naysayers to keep their negativity to themselves.

Set incremental goals; and reward yourself. If you’ve decided to stop smoking and you haven’t for a whole month; give yourself a reward. Get a massage; or see a movie.
No matter what goal you have set for yourself; it will take dedication and determination to reach it. Changing any behavior is not easy; but certainly possible. Read more hints and tips at Psychology Today. We say go for it; and have a great 2011!

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