5 Ways to Stick to Your Resolutions
It's always the same thing: with the start of a new year comes more resolutions to add to your list. It's one thing to set goals, and quite another to actually accomplish them.
It's all too easy to give up on your resolutions, but what you need to remember is that you made those resolutions for a reason: and that reason is a BETTER YOU.
Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated in 2015:
Don't set yourself up for failure. Strive for a goal that is attainable. If you make resolutions that require small acts of will, not weeks of vigilance, it will be easier and more likely to stick.
Remember to take it step by step. Track your progress each day, no matter what you're trying to achieve. Whether it's walking more, going to the gym, cutting back to 2-3 cigarettes per day, or eliminating candy bars as a snack. When you keep track of your goals, you'll be more likely to stay on track. Seeing small accomplishments over the weeks can be encouraging.
If you wait until the last minute, your new year's resolution plan will be based on your mindset that particular day. Instead, it should be planned ahead of time. That way you can decide what changes you really want to focus on and you will also be able to develop strategies for each situation that may put your goals at risk.
If you have totally run out of steam when it comes to keeping your resolution, don't despair. It takes a lot of time and energy to make changes in your life. It may take several tries to make it a lasting change, so don't give up. If you slip, just get back on track as soon as possible. Recommit yourself.
Experts say it takes about 21 days for a new activity to become a habit and six months for it to become part of your personality. It won't happen overnight, so be persistent and patient! Resolutions aren't just for a month or two, they're improvements for the rest of your life.