Making New Year’s resolutions stick can feel like an annual ritual that often ends in frustration and disappointment. You start out with lofty goals for the new year, only to quickly become discouraged or sidetracked.
So, how do you maintain that initial excitement and prevent your goals from fizzling out? It’s a challenge many of us face—the enthusiasm of January replaced by dwindling commitment come February. But fear not, there are ways to navigate through this and keep those resolutions alive.
Following are some valuable tips:
Set ‘reasonable’ goals. I notice the gym is packed in January, but little by little the newcomers are replaced by the “lifers.” My friend, Geno, who has owned several health clubs, advises new members to set goals that are reasonably attainable.
Keep it simple. Instead of setting lofty, complex goals, try breaking them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. For example, if hitting the gym daily feels daunting at first, start with three times a week for shorter durations. The idea is to establish a routine that’s achievable and gradually build upon it. Scaling back the frequency can also alleviate the pressure, making it less burdensome.
Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. When you hit a roadblock, it’s crucial to recognize it but don’t let it derail your progress. Perfectionism often stands in the way of progress. Embracing imperfection and acknowledging that growth isn’t always a linear path can be liberating. Sometimes, taking a step backward or exploring different methods is necessary for growth. I learned a great deal about myself and what I let get in my way because I wasn’t perfect.
Here’s a personal anecdote about how I initially shied away from Zumba classes basically due to fear. I wanted so much to be great at it and thought I couldn’t do it unless I was perfect. Gradually, I was able to relax and just find joy in the process.
Take a detour, enjoy the journey. Learning a new skill, hobby or task isn’t always about acquiring a new talent but rather finding inspiration. There’s a rejuvenation, a freshness, that often comes in switching tasks. It also allows for better ideas to emerge with time. Sometimes taking a break and doing something else that made you feel successful will inspire you to keep at it. Maybe it’s working on a jigsaw puzzle or doing something you know well. This will build your success and give you the confidence to go back to the original task.
Link new goals to existing habits. People who have done this say it can be a game-changer. For instance, adding a half-hour walk to your normal routine after work, before indulging in activities you enjoy, can seamlessly integrate a new behavior.
At the end of the day, it’s important to understand that the journey toward achieving your resolutions isn’t always straightforward. It involves navigating obstacles, embracing imperfections and understanding that progress can involve setbacks and learning curves. By setting achievable goals, integrating them into existing routines and accepting the nonlinear nature of growth, you’ll be better equipped to stay committed and resilient in pursuing your aspirations.
Remember, each step—forward, backward or sideways—is part of the process. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and stay flexible in your approach.
Lisbeth Calandrino has been promoting retail strategies for the last 20 years. To have her speak at your business or to schedule a consultation, contact her at lcalandrino@nycap.rr.com
