The Institute for Vibrant Living - You're source for a vibrant life

New Year’s Resolutions: Reach Your Goals For 2010

Rating:

 Loading ...

• Share/Save

The dawning of the New Year marks a fresh start and most of us go into it with great intentions and lofty resolutions. The concept of making New Year’s resolutions is nothing new. In fact, the tradition dates back thousands of years to the Roman Empire. The symbolism associated with a new beginning still motivates people to attempt to make positive changes in their lives. Unfortunately, less than half of the people who make resolutions actually manage to keep them.

According to a study conducted at the University of Scranton, six months after January 1 only 46 percent of those who make New Year’s resolutions have fulfilled them. So, what can you do to make sure you follow through on your good intentions?

Keep them simple. You will have better luck keeping your resolutions if you concentrate on one or two things at a time. Once the first resolution has become
a habit you can always add another one to your list.

Have a plan. After you have decided on your resolutions make a plan for how you are going to accomplish them. If you’ve promised yourself you will walk a mile at least four times a week, decide exactly where and when you will do it. Many Americans make resolutions that involve losing weight. If losing weight is on your list, make a plan to do it 10 pounds at a time. Write down a list of healthy foods you enjoy eating. Jot down a list of sensible and fun exercises you can do. Concentrate on the positive outcomes, not just lower weight but higher energy levels, glowing skin and well-functioning muscles.

Write them down. Write down your resolution and stick in on the refrigerator
so you will be reminded of it every day. (This is particularly helpful if your resolution involves losing weight because you can’t open the refrigerator door without seeing it.)

Tell somebody. Share your New Year’s goals with important people in your life so they can support you. Studies show that people who keep their resolutions secret are rarely able to keep them. If your resolutions include a goal to get more exercise, invite a couple of friends to exercise with you. It’s more fun to do it with a friend and you will be far more likely to stay on your program.

Be realistic. Resolving to become a marathon runner in one year when you’ve never even jogged around the block is counterproductive. Keep your goals realistic, small and achievable. Think of a fun way to reward yourself when you achieve your goals.

If, despite your best intentions and dedication you still break a resolution, don’t give up. One slip-up doesn’t mean you can’t achieve your goal. Many people take their resolutions too seriously and beat themselves up after any little setback. Don’t do that
to yourself. Resolutions are goals and they need to be viewed that way. With a little planning and a lot of determination you can make positive changes that will enhance your life for years to come. Here’s to a happy, healthy new year!