The Key To Keeping Your New Year's Resolution

As we welcome in the new year many of us will spend time reflecting on our achievements from the previous. However, the chances are that every January you set yourself a resolution only to break it a few weeks later. Nevertheless, with a new year ahead you can begin to set new resolutions to accomplish; whether it’s a weight loss plan, stop smoking ambition or a target to reduce alcohol intake, there are many ways that you can make sure to stick to your New Year’s resolution: 

1. Set Realistic Targets

Many people struggle to keep New Year’s resolutions due to unrealistic goals. As a result, you are more likely to become frustrated and give up. Using weight loss as an example, it was found that losing weight is the resolution commonly abandoned first. Many people set weight loss goals that are too challenging, making immediate success unachievable. This can reduce motivation leading to the action of breaking a resolution. To achieve long-term success with your New Year’s resolution, set yourself realistic and achievable goals, these will be much easier to attain.

2. Celebrate Small Victories

Each victory, no matter how big or small is exactly that - a victory. Take the time to celebrate your small achievements, whether you turned down the offering of a cigarette or passed the chocolate bars on offer in the supermarket. Focusing on your small victories will maintain your motivation to succeed in larger goals. 

3. Reflect On Your Progress

To stick to your New Year’s resolution ensure to track your progress by keeping a diary. A logbook of achievements enables you to effortlessly review your progress over the previous months. Using stop smoking as an example, you can now track your progress within moments using your iPhone or tablet. With a wide variety of online tools, such as the NHS Choices Stop Smoking app, you can now keep track of your progress and reflect on how many days you’ve been smoke-free and how much money you’ve saved. Taking the time to acknowledge your progress is important, providing reassurance and solidifying your incentive. 

4. Make Your Resolution Public
 
Ensure that all of your friends and family are aware of your New Year’s resolution. With close friends and family by your side, you’ll have a supportive network to help you when you need motivation. By announcing your goals you’re being held accountable, this will motivate you to succeed as you focus on sharing and celebrating your accomplishment with those who have supported you throughout your journey. 

5. Do It For Yourself

To accomplish your New Year’s resolution, whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, improve fitness or cut down on drinking, you have to want to do it for yourself. Research has shown that it takes on average 21 days for a new activity to become a habit and it takes 6 months for a new habit to become a defined part of your personality. However, if you’re determined to achieve a goal for yourself you will stay motivated. Accomplishing your New Year’s resolution won’t happen immediately, so be persistent and stay focused. 

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