New Year Resolutions

I am going to let you in on a secret… I hate New Year’s Eve.

There, I’ve said it. It’s not the parties, being with friends or singing Auld Lang Syne, it’s the idea that the new year will somehow be better than the one just passed, and invariably… it isn’t.

And then there are those New Year’s resolutions we all make. The ones that get broken by Easter, if we even last that long. I attend yoga class, and have done so for about 10 years. Every January the class is full with new students and by February they have all disappeared and it’s just me and my regular class-mates again.

Sticking to New Year’s resolutions can be tough, and over the years I am as guilty at falling by the wayside, but it’s definitely achievable with a few strategies in place. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:

1. Set Realistic Goals

• Start with specific, measurable, and achievable goals. If your resolution is too vague or too ambitious, it can feel overwhelming. Instead of “get fit,” try “work out 3 times a week.”

2. Break Goals into Smaller Steps

• Big resolutions can be daunting, so break them into smaller, manageable tasks. For example, if you want to save money, you could start by setting aside a small amount every week.

3. Track Your Progress

• Keep a journal, app, or calendar to track your progress. Celebrate small wins along the way, as it’ll help keep you motivated.

4. Make It Part of Your Routine

• Consistency is key. Try to build your resolution into your daily or weekly routine so it becomes a habit. The more automatic it feels, the easier it will be to stick with.

5. Find Accountability

• Share your goals with friends or family, or even better, find a resolution buddy to hold each other accountable. You could also join a group or use online communities.

6. Be Flexible and Kind to Yourself

• Life happens, and there may be setbacks. Don’t beat yourself up over them. Instead, reassess and adjust your goals if necessary, and keep moving forward.

7. Focus on One Resolution at a Time

• If you have several goals, it might be better to focus on one at a time rather than spreading yourself too thin. Focusing on one resolution can help you give it the attention it deserves.

8. Visual Reminders

• Write your resolution down and place it somewhere you’ll see it often (e.g., on your fridge, phone background, or mirror). Visual cues keep you reminded of your goals.

9. Reward Yourself

• Treat yourself when you reach milestones. Whether it’s a small indulgence or an experience you enjoy, positive reinforcement can help you stay motivated.

10. Stay Patient

• Change takes time. Even if you don’t see immediate results, keep at it. Persistence is key, and small changes compound over time.

I will be using some of these techniques to help me stay on track, and this blog is a big part of it by keeping me accountable to you… my readers.