Top 10 tips to keep your New Year’s resolutions

Our top 10 tips will help you keep your New Year’s resolutions, no matter what they are.

Tip number 1 – Keep it simple

Start off with one main resolution. Focus your energy on changing one aspect of your life to increase your chances of success in the long run

Tip number 2 – Plan ahead

Don’t leave it until the last minute – plan ahead. Take some time before the New Year begins to think about what you really want to achieve

Tip number 3 – Try something new

If you’ve tried (and failed) to keep previous resolutions, it might be beneficial to think of a new resolution. Often, revisiting resolutions you’ve failed to keep can lead to disappointment

Tip number 4 – Be SMART

Use the “SMART” method to help achieve your goals. Make your resolution:

S – Specific

M – Measurable and Meaningful

A – Achievable

R – Realistic and Relevant

T – Time-specific

Tip number 5 – Talk about it

Talk about your resolution.  You’ll find you’re more likely to stay on track if you tell your friends and family about your goals

Tip number 6 – Write it down

It’s easy to forget minor victories. Try keeping a diary of goals and targets to keep track of the progress you’ve made. And refer to it every couple of weeks to keep you motivated

Tip number 7 – Don’t forget

Remember why you’re doing what you’re doing. When you’re tempted to deviate, remind yourself of the reasons you’ve chosen the resolution, and think about the ways your life will be better once you’ve achieved your goals

Tip number 8 – Get inspired

Find some success stories. Try to talk to someone who has already achieved your goal to find out first-hand how they have benefitted from it.  If you can’t find someone to physically talk to, try an internet search to read other people’s stories – there are dozens

Tip number 9 – Reward yourself

Use incentives for sticking to your goals. Give yourself mini-milestones, with little treats once reached.  If you’re giving up alcohol, smoking or takeaway food, calculate the money you’ve saved and use this for something special, like a holiday fund or day out with friends or family

Tip number 10 – Keep going

If you fall off the wagon, don’t beat yourself up about it.  We all experience setbacks from time to time, but the key is to keep going