Approximate reading time: 3 minutes
Updated December 2021
Does the idea of making a new year’s resolution tempt you but the thought of failing make you cringe?
For many years, in the days leading up to the end of the year, I dutifully outlined my very long list of goals for the new year.
(Remember that old saying: Man plans, and God laughs? In my case, I planned, and Brian laughed.)
Most years, that long list of lofty goals was abandoned without much notice.
Rinse and repeat yearly, until it became easier not to put any plans at all in place for the upcoming year.
However, there is something about the start of a new year that just begs for a person to try, once again, to become their very best self.
Making a new year’s resolution that provides results requires a new way of making that resolution.
Start with formulating one new year’s resolution. One!
I am convinced that many new year’s resolutions end because a complete life overhaul at one time is simply not realistic.
It is too overwhelming.
Starting with one thing allows you to be laser focused.
If there are many things which you really want to accomplish, that’s ok. Make note of them somewhere and when you accomplish your one thing, implement this plan for the next thing on your list.
Take the first step
As soon as possible, take the first step. Often, just taking the first step provides the motivation to continue.
Outline the repeat steps
What action needs to be taken, taken and retaken until you reach your goal?
Put it all in writing
Putting it all in writing is crucial. Every. Single. Step!
A good idea in your head is likely to stay in your head. Write down what you plan to accomplish and post it somewhere visibility is high.
Look at it. Refer back to it. Cement it in your brain. If you fail, start over.
And now the magic (aka the hard work)
The magic happens in the daily commitment to take the necessary steps over and over again until you reach your goal. Every. Single. Day. Whether you feel like it or not.
Most days, you won’t feel like it (at least at first). But as you make progress and start enjoying success, the daily steps will become a habit and the hard work will become easier.
Super start your resolution
Share your resolution with a trusted friend. Ask them to hold you accountable.
Knowing that someone will be checking up on you can provide the motivation to carry on when you are tempted to quit.
After you meet one goal, start on the next thing
The new year is a great time for a fresh start. So isn’t a new day!
This is a plan that can be implemented anytime for anything.
So, make your plan, take the little steps and watch your success unfold.
Here’s to another happy new year!
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It’s a little thing that would mean a lot to me!
I agree with your ideas. I’ve learned that progress is usually gained in baby steps – not in huge leaps. I’ve also learned to have a person to whom I’m accountable and can report my progress. This “keeps me honest”. I don’t need to tell them my actual weight or finances or whatever – just weekly updates of my little steps of progress. By doing this I must also admit my backsliding – and the thought of that helps curb my impulses.