Every year when the clock strikes midnight on Jan. 1, I promise to make a change. My New Year’s resolution is usually something very generic. Last year, I decided to quit drinking soda. Three days later, I am walking to the fridge to grab out a can of my favorite: Diet Coke. I snap the tin plated tab in and take a sip. As the burn of the carbonation runs down my throat, I look down and say, “Oops!”
Chances are, you’re human, and have made a New Year’s resolution and then broken it. If your New Year’s resolution is something that you want to be dedicated to, here are five tips to help you get started.
1. Share it with friends
You are more likely to keep a goal if your friends and family know about it. You also won’t want to disappoint them. For example, your resolution could be to quit smoking. If you told your best friend, you are less likely to light up a cigarette the next day in front of her. They may also have words to motivate you with, to complete your goal.
2. Pencil it in
For some, New Year’s Resolutions, you must do other things in order to get that result. If your desire is to get better grades, you will need to put time aside to study. The best way to add things in to your lifestyle is to mentally or physically, jot it down in specific times. The more specific you are (where, what time) the less room for excuses.
3. Switch it around
If you have a bad habit that you are trying to get rid of, replace it. If you want to stop going to places that will lead to drinking, find a good substitute. You do not want to sit at home, while you are imagining all the fun you could be having. You may then, start to make compromises with yourself. Find a new activity that you will enjoy to fill these spaces. If money is an issue, spend more time with a certain relative or friend that you rarely get to see.
4. Track your progress
By tracking how far you have come each day, you are more conscious of your goal. When you are conscious of it, it influences your decisions. If you want to eat better, keep a food diary. If saving money is your goal, write down everything you spend your money on.
5. Be honest with yourself
You may notice yourself becoming less dedicated. It is OK to make mistakes. If you start to slip up, start over. It can be the same resolution or a new one. About It’s said that 67% of people make three or more resolutions, according to an article posted on the Texas A&M, Family and Consumer Sciences Website (fcs.tamu.edu).
6. Develop a pattern
Experts say it takes about 21 days to form a new habit, according to the Florida International University Website (www2.fiu.edu). It then takes six months for it to become part of your personality. Change is hard, but as long as you continue to do it, it will become second nature in no time.