As we get ready to say goodbye to another year, we're also looking forward to the year ahead. A new year offers a fresh start, a new chance to gather up our willpower to break old habits, and to fulfill new goals. To finally get that six pack, to eat only organic food, to spend less money or spend more time with family, the list goes on.
Yet good intentions often come to naught, as all our shiny new resolutions are forgotten one by one and before we know it, we've achieved basically none of the things that we set out to do.
We're here to help - try these 6 surefire ways to keep your New Year's Resolutions.
1- Keep it simple
It's good to be ambitious, but trying to overhaul your entire lifestyle in the span of one year will just lead to disappointment! Don't overwhelm yourself with too many goals, just get started by focusing on one or two really important ones.
2- Be selective
Choosing a goal that will impact your life positively in terms of health, happiness or fulfillment will go a long way to helping you stick to it. For example, quitting smoking is not just good for your health, but it can improve your self-esteem as well.
3- Be realistic
Its not going to happen right away, or even in the next week or month so don't aim too high and ignore reality. Why did you fail before - did you aim to lose too much weight that it felt impossible? Or did you aim to save too much in an unfavorable economic climate? Try to break your goals down to clear, manageable chunks for example - saving RM30 a month, or going for a jog once a week.
4- Treat yourself
Reward yourself when you achieve important milestones- you've been good you really do deserve it! But do be careful not to overdo it and put your goal in danger- one cup of ice cream, not one tub.
5- Get support
The people around you can play a vital part in helping you achieve your goal. Explain your plans to trustworthy and supportive friends and family and let them know of ways they can help when the going gets tough.
6- Don't give up!
A slip-up is inevitable, so don't be too hard on yourself. Most importantly, don't give up! Review your achievements and allow yourself to feel proud that you accomplished that much. Don't be too critical, forgive yourself and simply try again! Remember, you are in charge of yourself and your life.