At the beginning of a new year, we all feel a certain expectation to make resolutions and start off on the right foot, but how often do these last throughout the year?
If you want to change your lifestyle, that is a big commitment. They key is to set goals and achieve them one small step at a time. This will stop your goals getting neglected, or make you feel like they are too out of reach.
Whilst the new year seems like a great time to challenge yourself to new things, it isn’t always the case. The start of January can be a very busy period, and you may need some time to clear your mind before setting your goals and intentions for the year. There is no right or wrong way to do it! You may find that February or March are better times, particularly as the start of spring brings new energy.
Here are a few top tips to help you set goals and be accountable for them.
- Break the year down into smaller segments
If the whole year feels daunting, don’t worry. You don’t need to set resolutions for the whole year ahead.
It can be more beneficial to look ahead to the next three months. One big goal or even several can seem overwhelming, which can lead to procrastination and even giving up. Instead, we recommend trying to write down your goals month-by-month, or even plan for the seasons of the year, whichever helps you most.
It’s also important to regularly review them. For example, you can track your progress monthly or weekly and make changes to your goals. One month, your goals might completely change, and that’s totally fine! Because you are making progress to suit your needs.
- Buddy up
Struggling with motivation or just feeling like your resolutions may not quite stick? It’s a great idea to have an accountability buddy, or someone who can help hold you to them. If you set similar goals to your buddy, you can motivate and remind each other whenever you feel you’re lacking inspiration.
- Set target dates
It’s been proven that time-specific goals have a much better chance of being achieved. However, it is essential to be realistic about when you set your deadline. Remember to not make it too regimented for yourself but have dates in mind of when you would have liked to achieve your goals. For example, you may want to have been consistent with a new hobby by summer or reach a higher number of steps by the end of each month.
- Stay positive
Positivity can be the key to success, so try your best to back your goals up with positive action!
Try doing one small positive thing every day that moves you towards your goal, like changing your morning routine so you start you day on a positive note, or having a conversation with someone about your achievements so far.
- Choose your goals wisely
This will take time but is worth it in the long run. Scribbled a quick list? You’ll end up letting go of them as quickly as you wrote them! It’s important to give some real thought to what goals you think will improve your day-to-day life, and ones that you are excited to achieve.
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