As we celebrate 2011 coming to an end we look forward to a new year and a fresh start in 2012. For many of us this also means a New Year’s Resolution or two.
But are these resolutions that millions of people make every year helpful or harmful in the long run? Do they ultimately lead to benefits or disappointments? Life Coach Jessica Reddy says that the majority of resolutions lead to disappointment due to a lack of expectations and compelling reasons for the resolutions, although, with the right attitude, resolutions can be very successful.
“I do believe that starting fresh with the New Year is a good idea but successful resolutions are the ones that are approached with the right attitude,” Reddy states.
According to USA.gov these resolutions are most popular each year.
- Drink less alcohol
- Eat healthy food
- Get a better education
- Get a better job
- Get fit Lose weight
- Manage debt
- Manage stress
- Quit smoking
- Reduce, reuse, recycle
- Save money
- Take a trip
- Volunteer to help others
Reddy says that the best resolutions are ones that are value-based. This means they are developed from an individuals values system - what is most important to the individual setting the resolution.
After receiving advice from numerous individuals on completing and sticking with their resolutions throughout the years we found that the number one trick was “doing.”
So many individuals write down their resolutions and that’s as far as it gets. No matter what your resolution is you have to be willing, able and ready to do it. And don’t just make a resolution, make a plan to complete your goal and take the steps necessary to get there. It takes action - the “doing.”
Another part of fulfilling a resolution is to tailor it to yourself, your own needs, and your own limits. Instead of the typical “Lose weight” resolution one GalTime reader tailored that resolution to her own goals with “Get a fitness model body.” She was very specific with her goals and used a visual to help her complete them and stay motivated along the way. After completing light exercises daily and eating more grains, fruits and vegetables and drinking a lot more water, she got down to her desired size. She said her resolution challenged her to get out of her comfort zone, and presented her with a new year and new possibilities.
Like Redding said, its about what’s important to you, what you value, and embracing your goals with the right attitude.
Boston-- don’t forget the fun as you approach a new year. Bring it in with friends, family, or any of the 2012 New Year’s events this city presents!
What are your resolutions for this year? What have you done to keep past resolutions?
