You probably made one. Or maybe even two. Or three. It’s the new year after all. What would the new year be without resolutions right? Eh.
I know – the new year seems to be the perfect time to make some positive changes. And sure, it is, but why do we need to limit it to one time a year? A resolution is a decision to do or not do something. Why not make it an everyday, year long process?
Maybe making resolutions at the new year is a way to motivate you to make a change. I get it. But research tells us that approximately 80% of those who make New Year’s resolutions fail by the beginning of February. Eighty percent! That’s a lot of resolutions thrown to the wayside. I’m sure they were made with good intentions. So why all the failure?
If you really aren’t ready to make those changes how are you going to be successful?
Let’s face it. Making a resolution whether it’s to lose weight, be more positive or save money requires self-discipline. By this, I don’t mean denying yourself things that you enjoy – that’s just asking for trouble. Ever notice when you tell yourself you can’t have something you want it even more? Yup, that usually backfires. By self-discipline I mean wanting to make a change, wanting to develop new habits, wanting improve yourself.
So, be prepared to change your mind. Trying to change by “trying not to do this or that”, doesn’t change they way you think about something. Look at the patterns and habits that led to you “doing this or doing that” – they need to change if you want to be successful.
And, be prepared to be uncomfortable. Bottom line – change is stressful. There are no if’s, and’s or but’s about it. Any change – good or bad – causes some sort of stress. Stress is uncomfortable. You will feel uncomfortable.
Finally, be patient. We all want instant gratification but change takes time. Change is a process. Remember “Rome wasn’t built in a day” – time is needed to create something great.
So as the new year starts, if you’ve made a resolution, I hope you’re successful. If you haven’t made a resolution, that’s okay too. Maybe you’re not ready, maybe your preparing to make a change or maybe your resolution is an ongoing process. In any case, I hope you take me along for the ride.
Do you make New Year’s resolutions?