Believe it or not, the New Year will start in just a few days. That means that you only have a short time to set those New Year's Resolutions! Most of us set up our resolutions with the best intentions, yet somehow manage to fall off the bandwagon after just a few weeks. Whether your goal is to get in shape, become more organized, or save up for a concert, this easy, step-by-step guide will help you set and keep your resolutions this upcoming year.
Step 1: Reflection
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Reflect on your past year. What did you do well this year, what could use some improvement? Think about all areas of your life, from relationships to your physical self. When you've come up with areas that you can improve on, build your resolutions from this area. Feel like you could spend more time with your friends rather than binge watching Netflix? Set a social resolution. Wish you would have hit the gym more than once a week this year? Set a fitness resolution. Any area in which you want to see improvement can be made into a resolution.
Step 2: Create Your Resolution(s)
This step is very important. I would recommend not creating more than 3 resolutions, otherwise you might become overwhelmed. Set specific, realistic goals for yourself. Instead of saying "this year I am going to lose weight," say, "In 2016, my goal is to lose 15 pounds by July 31st." This way, you have a specific goal to work towards, instead of just a general direction. Write your resolution(s) down in a place that you will look at often, like a in planner, on a post it note on your bathroom mirror, or on a paper on the fridge.
Step 3: Create a Plan
The most essential piece to meeting your resolution is setting up the pathway that can get you to your goal. If your goal is to lose 15 pounds by July 31st, think of the best possible plan to get you there. Join a gym. Buy books on meal planning. Research the healthiest foods to eat. Make a fitness board on Pintrest. Write down anything that you think will help you reach your goals, and then put it all in a planner or journal.
Step 4: Work Towards Your Goals
Now that you have prepared everything you need to meet your resolution, it's time to walk the walk. Follow the plan that you've made. Keep track of progress in your planner or journal. Give yourself updates and encouragement. If you fall off the bandwagon a bit, it's OK, just keep moving forward. Remember why you started this journey. Before you know it, you will have met your goal.
