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