Another year around the sun brings anticipation for a new year along with another list of resolutions to be made. It's not always easy figuring out how to go about setting these goals, but once they're made, all that's left to do is achieve them. It sounds easy enough, however that is not usually the case. Making resolutions are all about setting personal goals that are both achievable and improve our overall life. Here are a few tips on how to go about making your resolutions for the upcoming year!
1.) Don’t just make resolutions for New Years.
I know it sounds strange to think, but the truth is resolutions aren’t just meant for the new year. Although the new year is prime time for starting fresh, resolutions can be made any time. Don’t believe the universal notion that if you don’t have a resolution early in the year, then you can’t have one at all.
2.) Be optimistic.
Make sure that your resolution has a positive impact. Resolutions are meant to better ourselves so regardless your goal, make sure it benefits you as a person.
3.) Don't make resolutions for others.
A lot of the times we tend to make resolutions for the sake of others, however the only person the resolution should be for, is you. Resolutions are all about making us a better person and improving one’s lifestyle, not others. Just because most people’s resolution is to go to the gym, doesn't mean you should feel obligated to do the same.
4.) Don't make your resolutions unattainable.
As blunt as it sounds, you shouldn’t set too high of goals in resolutions. The objective of making a resolution is to make sure it's attainable. There’s no point in making a resolution that you can’t reach. It’s not about starting small, but making goals that you are able to work for and successfully achieve.
5.) Don’t settle for the bare minimum.
Similar to setting your resolution goals too high, you shouldn’t set them too low either. You want your resolution to be somewhat challenging and attainable. Although getting dressed everyday is a huge plus, it’s not something that should be considered a resolution.
6.) Try something new.
All good resolutions include trying something new whether it's food, an activity, or a job. The new year is meant for new experiences so don’t be afraid to have something new on your resolutions list.
7.) Step out of your comfort zone.
Sometimes in life we have to step out of our comfort zone in order to experience new things .As humans we tend to stay with what we know, and tread lightly when heading into new waters. By trying new things we are able to not only understand others, but ourselves as well.
8.) Be open minded.
Don’t be afraid to be open minded and dare to do the unexpected. The new year is all about starting fresh and getting familiar with the unfamiliar. If things don’t go as planned then let it happen. Try new things, explore, and let life direct you to new adventures.
9.) Resolutions don’t have to be expensive.
Yes traveling is the most advocated resolution, however it can be just as inexpensive as it is expensive. Taking a two week vacation in the Carribean is an ideal vacation for most people, but the price certainly isn’t. However, don’t let this deter you from traveling at all. Instead of planning a 2 week vacation on an island resort, try taking a day trip to a local town to explore something new.
10.) Your resolution does not have a deadline.
Although it is very exciting to start the new year off right with a list of resolutions, it’s best to complete them one at a time. There is no deadline to when all your resolutions must be achieved by. Some may take a few weeks, while others may take a few months. As long as you’re making progress, that’s all that matters!
11.) There is no limit.
There is no set limit to how many resolutions you must have however, it is encouraged that you have at least one. As long as you challenge yourself and try something new there is no need to meet a certain criteria.
12.) Take each resolution one step at a time.
Think of your resolutions as a check list. With this mindset, you should aim to achieve each resolution one step at a time. If you take on too many goals at once you may become overwhelmed and discouraged. Resolutions are meant to improve our lives and be enjoyable. Don’t make them a chore by rushing and getting them done all at once.
13.) Commit to your resolutions.
Regardless of the amount of resolutions you've made, they all mean null if you don’t dedicate 110% and commit. The only way to achieve your resolutions is by taking action and working towards them. The first step itself is simply making a resolutions. If you’ve made them, then you’re already halfway there, all that’s left is to pursue your goal!