Now is the Time to Set Your New Years Resolution

We are reaching the close of yet another year, but this time, it’s a bit more special this time around. We are facing down the close of a decade, and with that, ten chances for you to have strived to accomplish your New Year’s Resolution. Reflecting upon the last ten years and realizing the progress you’ve made, it’s time to carry on the momentum you’ve created and enter the new year, and a new decade, with a drive to continue crushing it. 

Studies show that 25% of Americans fail to follow through on their resolution, and less than 8% actually complete it by the end of the year. However, with the right guidelines, and a healthy amount of motivation, you could be well on your way to becoming one of the few that follows through on their resolution. Before considering your personal goals, let these tips help guide you to the path of success. 

1. Start small with your goals and don’t go overboard on how many you pursue. You don’t want to immediately overwhelm yourself when thinking of your resolutions. 
2. Be specific! Take the time to sit down and write out a detailed plan that clearly outlines what you want to accomplish and the steps necessary to accomplish this goal. 
3. Develop a system of accountability that will keep you on track. Try asking a friend or family member to periodically check in on you throughout the year. That reminder from someone else can be a powerful source of motivation and can also serve as a way for you to evaluate and track your progress. 
4. Understand the underlying purpose of why you’re setting this goal. A goal without a strong purpose is hardly something that will make you sacrifice and work towards it. 
5. Remind yourself that striving to achieve a goal is something that takes time and patience. Whatever your resolution is, achieving it will likely not be something that will happen overnight. It is important to keep in mind that achieving your goals is not a race to the finish, but rather the development of habits that will stay with you for the rest of your life. 
6. Search for motivation to keep you focused. By February, the majority of people will have lost interest in their resolution, so taking the time to renew your motivation is a smart idea to keep your inspiration alive. This could entail reading books, watching videos, or even talking to others who have similar goals. 
7. Don’t beat yourself up over experiencing failure. No one is perfect, and it is inevitable that along the way, you’re going to stumble. It is important to not view these as failures, but rather as a learning experience that will strengthen your resolve.