Who’s ready for the new year? Who’s not? While those who have had a wonderful 2018 may not be so excited to see the year end, those who have had a challenging year are ready to go to bed and wake up in 2019, hoping for a better go at it!
After the big parties and clinking glasses, traditionally, most will make a pact with themselves, a new years resolution, and make a promise to better themselves in some way. Maybe they want to lose weight. They may commit to eat better or start going to the gym (or go more). Maybe they want to detox and not drink or smoke anymore , so they may dedicate themselves to not drinking for a time frame or start a program to help curb their addictions. Some may decide that they are finally going to manage their finances better, so they may commit to a savings plan or even a lesser spending plan. There are so many different wants and needs out there and many will DREAM of a better self. More success, thinner body, better diet…….and the list goes on. Were your 2018 New Years Reolutions on this list? Did you reach your goal?
According to Forbes, only 8% of people will achieve their New Years Resolution. Business Insider says 80% fail by February. 45% will actually last up to six months before dropping off. So, why do these promises have such a high failure rate? What are the secrets to achieving your goals?
Some, i.e. the Miami Herald, may suggest that succeeding at achieving your goal is dependent upon where you live. According to the Miami Herald, “Some cities, such as San Francisco and Seattle, make it easier to keep a resolution because they have gyms galore, plentiful sidewalks, and good job prospects.” So, I guess, simply relocating will make your chances of success higher? I, personally, have doubts with this theory.
Alternatively, might I suggest that, when making these New Year Resolutions, you do so by setting SMART goals for yourself. SMART goals have a proven track record of success. I mean, who wants to set lofty, unattainable goals that when they fail you feel defeated and unworthy. Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying to stop dreaming big, I am simply saying you have to set short term goals for yourself that are achievable. Keep the BIG dreams for your long term goals. So, what are SMART goals?
SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely.
Specific: Just saying I want to lose weight is too general, however, saying I am going to exercise 30 minutes a day, 3 times a week is very specific and easier to plan out.
Measurable: “I want to lose weight”, how much weight? Put a number to it, “I want to lose 20 pounds.” Having a measured goal is easier to keep focused on then an unknown. You could even go as far as saying, “I want to lose 2 pounds a week until I reach a loss of 20 pounds.”
Attainable: If your goal is too lofty, it will be too discouraging to stick to. Losing 2 pounds a week is more attainable than losing 10 pounds a week.
Relevent: Why are you setting this goal? Having a “why” makes the goal relevant and important.
Timely: Your goal should be set to a close deadline. Without a deadline or even a far out deadline, it will be easier to “put it off”.
More importantly, I want to talk about accountability. Sometimes we have trouble keeping ourselves accountable so it can be easier to achieve your goals if you have a partner to help keep you accountable. We can lie to ourselves with no problem, it’s harder to lie to your friend. Plus, it’ll be more fun! 🙂
Some tips that may help you achieve these goals, as recommended by United Healthcare of Texas, are to:
- Leverage technology: Use your “gadgets” to help you stay on track. 53% of people making health resolutions plan on using technology to help them achieve results.
- Walk more: Think FIT! Frequency (500 steps within 7 minutes 6 times a day), Intensity (3,000 steps within 30 minutes each day), and Tenacity (at least 10,000 steps a day).
- Check available resources: 86% of employers offer wellness programs with financial incentives.
- Put an emphasis on Oral and Vision health: With growing evidence linking oral and vision health to overall health, it is important to take care of your eyes and teeth.
Ultimately, it is of my personal opinion that those who REALLY want change, will achieve it! No one is going to do it for you!
So, here’s to 2019! May you have a wonderful, successful, blessed year and may you end it better than you begin it!
The Adventures of Discovering your Purpose at 40-something! 