A new beginning. That is what we think of January each year. We want to be optimistic and become better. So, everyone comes up with new years resolutions. Unfortunately, we either create unattainable goals or we do not know how to meet them. Here are some ways to set realistic goals and meet them.
1) Be clear and specific
Bad resolution: “I will work out more.”
Good resolution: “I will lift weights twice a week and start walking to work.”
The first one is too vague. To set more specific resolutions, you can either quantify your desired outcome or break down your goal into tasks.
2) Make resolutions that are measurable
Bad resolution: “I will eat healthier.”
Good resolution: I will drink more water and cut back to one soda per week.”
To stick with a resolution, we must be able to tell if we are making progress. Goals that can be measured fail for two reasons: Either we give ourselves too much credit for sub-par performances, or we give ourselves too little credit for good performances.
3) Choose goals that are in line with your own values
Bad resolution: “Because my girlfriend thinks I’m lazy, I will wake up earlier and exercise before work.”Good resolution: “I’ll wake up earlier and exercise before work because it makes me feel great throughout the day.
Your resolutions should revolve around something that is deeply valuable to you. When we set resolutions that are driven by our desire to please others, we are doomed to fail.
4) Set goals that are about achieving, not avoiding
Bad resolution: “I will stop drinking so much coffee.”
Good resolution: “If I need a kick during the day, I will drink a cup of green tea.”
Research has proven that positive goals are more likely to stick than negative goals. This is because achievement-focused goals inspire and energize us, while goals focused on avoiding something depress us.
5) Don’t be afraid to learn something new
Now is the time to step out of your comfort zone, Oliveri says. If your goal is to exercise four times a week, take a risk and enroll in a fitness class you’ve never taken before. Or if you want to improve your marriage, consult with a relationship professional.
6) Surround yourself with supporters
Tell your family and friends about your new goals. If they’re supportive, they will help hold you accountable. On the other hand, there are always doubters. If they insult your progress, defend yourself, and end the conversation as soon as possible.
So, we can now start our new year with realistic goals and achievable results. Thanks goes to washitonian.com and life coach Sara Oliveri for this invaluable information.If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback you can reach us by email.
Thank you for visiting !
Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team
