Realistic Resolutions

It’s a few days into the new year and I feel compelled to ask- How are your New Year’s Resolutions going? I personally am not a fan of resolutions. The way most resolutions are worded set you up for failure, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Ignore the Big Picture

Focus on the little steps that will paint the picture. Saying you want to lose 30 pounds or save money are too general. It is more efficient to set a goal that you can keep daily. Track your food daily and cut out specific things from your shopping list. If every day you’re living healthier and spending less, think about the progress you’ll make in a year.

Manage Your Expectations

You won’t master the violin in a month! Unless you’re some kind of savant, learning new skills will take a long time. Take pride in the little victories while keeping an optimistic eye on your goals.

Obligations and Competition

If you can commit to someone else that you will reach your goals, you’ll be peer pressured into it. There are lots of times I probably wouldn’t have studied Russian if I didn’t have the constant fear of disappointing my private tutor.

Intrinsic Motivation

Someone telling you about the miracles of journaling or running every morning might pique your interest but will you actually do it if you don’t want to? Find a resolution that gives you the warm fuzzies, an interest that excites you, something! Don’t feel obligated to start your year off living a lie. No one will blame you if you can’t find the motivation to get up at 5 am to go jogging, do what fits your life. And most of all-

Have a Happy New Year!