New Year's Resolutions

Chances are, at some point in your life, you’ve made a new year’s resolution…and then broken it. This year let’s do it differently. I can help you stay on track with your resolutions. It’s simply about approaching your resolutions in a different manner. I have made many resolutions in my life and happy to say that I’ve achieved almost everything I set out to do. Here is a list of very helpful ideas to help you succeed: Timing: I understand that Jan.1 is the start of a new year and maybe you feel that this should be the start of something “new” for you too. But if you aren’t ready for a change then guess what? It’s not going to happen. If you’re finally ready to quit smoking on Jan 15th, then that’s the time for you to start your resolution to stop smoking. Whenever the time is right, that’s the time to start a resolution. It doesn’t have to be on a set date. Be realistic: The surest way to fall short on your goal is to set a benchmark that is unrealistic. “I will never have another piece of candy again” is totally unrealistic. How about “I am going to clean up my diet” Don’t be too specific. Keep your goals in general terms and within arms reach. Plan ahead: Decide beforehand how you will deal with the temptation that WILL arise and challenge you. This could include calling a friend, reaching for some sparkling water, exercising. Just something to stop your mind from fixating on your temptation. Pro and Con: Make a pro and con list on paper. Write down all the positives that you would be enjoying if you succeed with your plan. Write down all the negative things that could happen if you don’t succeed. Keep the list ongoing. You would be surprised how helpful this list can be when you take the time to read it. “How disgusting is my smoking habit?” “How healthy I will be without cigarettes” TALK: Don’t keep your resolutions quiet. Tell friends and family members your lofty goals. If they care, they will be your strongest support group. The best scenario would be to find somebody who shares these same lofty goals as you so you can motivate and support each other. Reward yourself: This doesn’t mean you can’t ever have a piece of chocolate if your resolution was to have a cleaner diet. That’s absurd! Have a piece of chocolate…not the entire box! Just because you’re eating a piece of candy, that does not contradict your resolution to eat better. Remember we are thinking in general terms, not specific. Track your progress: Keep track of each small step you make in reaching your goals. Short term goals are easier to keep. If you haven’t had a cigarette in two days…Great! Now try for three, then four and so on. Don’t beat yourself up and resign: Obsessing over the occasional slip up won’t help you achieve your goals. Do the best you can each day. If you fall down, get up again. One day at a time. Stick to it; It takes about 21 days for a new activity to become a habit, and 6 months to become part of your personality and character. I hope these ideas help you in becoming the best you can and want to be. Don’t be afraid to become a better person…R