A few years ago I gave up making New Year’s resolutions. I usually struggled to come up with that one thing on which to focus my efforts, and though I’d start off strong (and resolute!), by February it had usually fallen by the wayside. Then I was left with that sense of failure and that well, why bother now? mindset that gets you nowhere.
So one January when I was laid up with the flu, in the midst of an ice/snow storm that provided an unexpected full week “off” and lots of quiet time, I started rethinking the idea of resolutions for the New Year. I was starting to become more in tune with the rhythm of our lives and more aware of smaller, bite-sized, changes I wanted to make. And so that year I embraced goals instead of resolutions, even though we were almost a month into the new year.
Since this “resolution reboot”, my goals for each new year have become much more attainable AND I have had more success in meeting them. I have a few tips for rebooting your own resolutions in 2015.
Think “more” and “less”. For instance, if you want to try to give up coffee this year, make it your goal to drink less coffee, but more water/tea/juice. Most likely going cold turkey is only going to result in headaches, frustration, and failure. By cutting back gradually and adding in more of healthier option over time, your chances of success are greater.
If you want to spend less time online, find an enjoyable activity to do instead of some of your usual surfing. Take the dog for a walk, read a book or newspaper instead of the online news boards, or meditate. Find a satisfying replacement for what you’re trying to eliminate helps lessen the feeling of deprivation.
Make your goals bite-sized. Let’s face it. “Lose 50 pounds” is a lofty goal for the year. And imagine how discouraged you’ll feel if you get to March and have gained back 5 of the 15 you’d lost. Break it down into smaller, more manageable goals — losing 5 pounds per month, for instance. And celebrate each milestone along the way.
Have others hold you accountable. While no one likes someone breathing down their neck, having someone to gently encourage you in your journey can be enormously helpful. They can listen to your frustrations or fears and offer strategies for staying or getting back on track.
Remember there are 365 days in a year. Last year, my husband and I resolved to eat cleaner in 2014. While we made minor changes throughout the year, we hit it hard during the month of October and had tremendous results to show by the time 2015 rolled in. Just because you might lose your mojo by January 15 or in June, doesn’t mean you can’t revisit your goals later in the year. Sometimes the timing of January 1 isn’t right for certain goals. But October 1 might be.
I wish you all the best in your goals for the new year. I’d love for you to share what they are in the comments. Good luck!
Find more home and DIY inspiration on my blog, Decor & More.
