Tips for Sticking to Your New Year's Resolution

Everyone sets goals for the New Year, so that we can have a better, healthier year ahead. How are you doing with your resolutions so far? Whether you’re trying to lose weight, get more sleep each night, or spend more time with family, it can be difficult to stick to your resolutions. Use these tips to help stick to your goals for 2019.
 

Set realistic resolutions –
One main reason why we are unable to keep our resolutions is because they are unrealistic. We set the bar so high for ourselves, that it is practically impossible to achieve our goals. Make sure that your aims are specific and realistic. You want to have a clear idea of what you’re trying to achieve. You also want to set a goal that you can see yourself accomplishing. Instead of trying to “be healthy,” make your resolution to “each at least one serving of fruits and vegetables every day.”
 

Break it down into smaller steps –
It is tough to stay motivated by the end of January. We don’t have the enthusiasm that we did at the start of the new year. You can keep yourself motivated and optimistic by breaking your resolution into smaller, actionable steps. Develop a plan for achieving your long-term goal, thinking about the steps you will need to take along the way. Set milestones for yourself and reward yourself for each mini goal that you reach. It is important to celebrate every achievement, no matter how small.

Get support –
We can rely on ourselves, as well as others, to help us follow through with our resolutions. You can support yourself by being mindful and reflecting on how far you’ve come each week. Praise yourself for the short-term progress you’ve made towards achieving your goal. In addition, don’t be afraid to reach out to others for support. Friends, family, or a community of people with similar goals can help you through obstacles. Find a person or group who can keep you accountable and inspire you to move forward.

This is just the beginning of your New Year’s resolution. First, congratulate yourself on taking the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Then, make use of these tips to follow your goal and see it through. You can make a change for the better if you put your mind to it. Here’s to a great 2019!