The obligatory resolutions post: 4 simple ways to approach your resolutions
It's New Year's Eve-Day and it seems only fitting that today's tip involve setting resolutions. Since my last post covered how to establish automatic reminders of your resolutions, I thought it would be appropriate to provide some simple suggestions regarding resolutions and how to approach them, whatever they might be.
1. Focus on the benefit.
Define why you have the resolution you do. Example: I want to rediscover my six pack abs that faded shortly after my son was born and, in general, get into better shape. The benefit of this? I won't cringe when I look in the mirror, I'll feel better in general and will have more energy.
2. Find a way to keep yourself motivated.
Everyone has great intentions until about February 2nd and then the goals* we were all fired up about don't seem all that important and it's easier to slack off. Motivation is the way to remember the benefit. There are a lot of ways to keep yourself motivated. Using the missing six pack example, perhaps it's a "before" picture I tape to the mirror. Maybe it's a collection of pictures of people doing active things who look fit. Or, my wife's favorite, create a star chart and give myself a star every day that I do 100 sit-ups. You get the idea.
3. Don't try to start accomplishing all your resolutions at once.
For example, let's say your resolution is to become a well-read person, so you want to finish four books from classic literature this year. Instead of worrying about finishing all four books, pace your resolution so you read a book every three months. It's a less intimidating way to look at things and you'll be less likely to feel overwhelmed and give up.
4. Simplify your goals. Limit the number of resolutions you have. If you're like me, you can probably list a couple dozen things you'd like to do better (or stop doing) right off the top of your head. Slow down, pick a the three or four of the most important things you're passionate about. Define them. Determine what you have to do to achieve them and go.
What other things should you keep in mind when approaching your resolutions? Do you disagree with one of the points? Do you have any resolutions you'd like to share? The comments are open!
*I'm aware that the definitions of goals and resolutions are unique, but for the purpose of this post I'm going to use them interchangeably.
Posted in: Exercise, Goals, Holidays on Monday, December 31, 2007 at
I like your ideas. I'd also like to suggest being specific about goals/resolutions. If I may piggyback on your six-pack example, perhaps having a goal of "100 crunches a day" or "20 leg lifts twice a week" could help be more specific. I can't have my constant goal of "get in shape" because that's too vague and too big. I like taking it in smaller pieces.
My lifestyle goals for the year:
1. Eat salad (dressing on the side) for a meal at least twice a week.
2. Do some sort of physical activity at least 3x week.
3. Call my Grandmas once a month.
4. Make time for daily reflection (yep, this came from Zen Habits end of year blog - I even created a LiveJournal account).
Don't forget to give yourself a pat on the back each time you do something that brings you closer to your goal. We tend to be our own worst critic, generally focusing on how far we have to go instead of looking at how far we have come.
Be happy and excited about your daily accomplishments. You'll find that that in and of itself will motivate you tremendously.
Both great ideas. Thanks for sharing them!
These are great tips for reaching goals, it's important to map out your plan i/o of only setting a goal. Thanks for sharing!