Hey there, friend! So, we’re approaching a new year, and you know what that means—New Year’s resolutions.
Tips for sticking to your goals all year
But here’s the thing—most resolutions are like a shiny new toy that loses its appeal by February. If you’re like me, you’ve probably experienced the heartbreak of starting the year with big goals, only to find yourself completely over them a month later. It’s like setting yourself up for failure, right?
But, here’s the twist: it doesn’t have to be this way. You can actually make resolutions that are achievable, meaningful, and—dare I say—fun! And I’m here to show you exactly how. Ready? Let’s dive in.
1. Set Realistic Goals
I get it—the excitement of a fresh start makes us want to go all in.
We’re talking grand goals like “I’m going to lose 30 pounds in a month” or “I’m going to read 50 books this year.”
But here’s the problem: when your goals are too big or too far-fetched, they’re setting you up for failure before you even start.
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So, my advice? Start small.
Think about what’s actually possible within the timeframe you’ve got. If you’re aiming for something bigger, break it down into manageable chunks.
For example, instead of committing to read 50 books, try setting a goal of reading one book a month. It’s totally doable, and by the end of the year, you’ll have 12 books under your belt. You’ll feel proud, not burned out.
2. Create a Plan You Can Stick To
You know what they say, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” And when it comes to resolutions, that saying is spot on. Having a plan makes a world of difference.
If your goal is to work out more, don’t just say “I’ll go to the gym more often.” That’s vague. Instead, create a clear plan with specific days and times. For instance, “I’ll work out every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for 30 minutes.”
Make it realistic and easy to follow. You don’t need a complex strategy, just something simple and easy to follow every week. Trust me, having a set plan will keep you on track.
3. Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
Okay, so let’s talk about self-compassion. I can’t stress this enough.
We’re all human, and let’s face it—life gets in the way sometimes. You might miss a workout or skip reading for a week, and that’s okay!
Be kind to yourself.
Instead of beating yourself up, focus on what you’ve accomplished so far. Every small step counts, and it’s progress. Perfection is overrated.
If you miss a day or two, don’t throw in the towel. Just pick up where you left off and keep going. After all, it’s the consistency that matters, not perfection.
4. Track Your Progress
I know, I know. The word “tracking” might make you think of spreadsheets and endless notes. But bear with me—it’s not that bad. Tracking your progress is a game-changer when it comes to sticking to your resolutions.
Whether it’s a journal, an app, or a simple checklist, keep track of what you’ve done. Seeing those little wins build up will give you that extra boost to keep going.
For example, if your goal is to eat healthier, keep a food diary. When you look back and see how many days you’ve made better choices, it’ll motivate you to keep it up. Plus, tracking helps you stay accountable. You’ll think twice before skipping your workout or eating that extra slice of cake.
5. Make It Fun
Now, this is where the magic happens. If your resolutions feel like a chore, you’re not going to last long. But if you make them enjoyable, you’ll want to stick with them.
For instance, if you want to exercise more, don’t just stick to boring workouts. Try something new and fun—join a dance class, start hiking, or take up yoga. You’ll be more motivated if you’re actually enjoying what you’re doing.
It’s the same with any goal. Find ways to make it fun and exciting. You’re way more likely to stick to it if you’re having a good time while doing it.
6. Visualize Your Success
I’m all about that vision board life.
There’s something super powerful about visualizing your success. When you can see yourself achieving your goal, whether it’s in a picture, a dream, or even a mental image, it gives you the motivation to keep going.
For example, if you’re aiming to save money, imagine yourself going on that dream vacation you’ve always wanted. Feel the excitement of stepping on a beach or exploring a new city. It’s all about creating a vivid image that reminds you why you started in the first place.
7. Share Your Goals with Someone You Trust
Accountability partners are a game changer. If you have a friend or family member who’s on board with your resolutions, share your goals with them.
This creates a sense of responsibility and adds that extra layer of motivation. Not only will you have someone to cheer you on, but they’ll also be there to encourage you when you feel like giving up.
I always tell my close friends my goals because they hold me accountable, and I do the same for them. It’s like having a team on your side!
8. Celebrate Small Wins
Let’s be real—celebrating small wins is key to maintaining motivation. If you wait for the “big win,” you might find yourself discouraged and burnt out.
But when you celebrate the little victories along the way, it makes the journey feel more rewarding. Did you go to the gym 3 times this week? Celebrate! Did you stick to your budget for a whole month? Awesome! Give yourself some credit.
Whether it’s a treat, a little break, or a fun activity, don’t skip over these moments of success. They add up!
9. Be Flexible with Your Goals
Let’s be honest—life happens. Sometimes, things change, and we can’t always stick to the exact plan we made.
It’s important to stay flexible. If something doesn’t work out, don’t scrap the goal entirely. Adjust it to fit your reality.
For instance, if you plan to wake up early for a morning workout but your schedule changes, adjust your workout time instead of just throwing in the towel. Flexibility gives you the ability to adapt without completely abandoning your goals.
10. Make Your Goals Align with Your Values
This one’s a biggie. When your resolutions align with what truly matters to you, you’re more likely to stick with them.
Think about what you really care about. Do you want to spend more time with family? Maybe it’s time to schedule more quality time with loved ones. Are you passionate about health? Start integrating mindful eating and self-care routines into your schedule.
When your goals are connected to your values, they won’t feel like chores. They’ll feel like an extension of who you are. And that’s when the magic happens.
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it, folks—how to make New Year’s resolutions that you’ll actually stick with. Start small, make a plan, be kind to yourself, track your progress, and most importantly, have fun with it!
New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be a drag. They can be a fresh start, a chance to grow, and a way to make 2024 the best year yet.
If you follow these tips, you might just find yourself looking back in December, proud of what you’ve accomplished—and feeling way better than you did last January. Trust me, it’s possible! So, go ahead and set those goals, friend. You’ve got this.
And remember, if I can do it, so can you!
