The clock goes off at 12:01am the confetti pours down, and an old whisper is heard throughout the air. “New Years resolutions.” The appeal of self-improvement as well as new beginnings takes hold as the calendar turns to 2024. The constant flurry of gym memberships or detox programs is a good time to reflect on the resolutions we make. Are they nothing more than empty promises, which are likely to be forgotten or can they serve as a blueprint for personal growth and development?
The Resolution Paradox: How do They Often FAIL?
The statistics are grim. Research shows that 88% of resolutions are dropped within the initial few months. Why? We get caught up in the tempting attraction of quick fixes and giddy statements. We rebuke negative habits and set high-risk goals without any specificity or a plan to achieve them. Failure will eventually lead to frustration and discouragement, sending us back to our former ways, feeling defeated and discouraged.
Reframing Resolution from Gimmicks To Growth Mindset
Instead of viewing resolutions as a static thing, let’s see them more as tools for deliberate development. The focus should shift away from the final product to the actual process. Make sure to develop healthy habits, such as mindful eating and daily exercising, rather than chasing an aesthetically pleasing physique. Instead of committing to learning a new tongue overnight, commit yourself to regularly practicing and celebrating every little victory you make along the way.
From aspiration to actions: Creating meaningful resolutions
In order to create powerful resolutions, a little introspection is needed. Here are a few tips to assist you along your way:
- Identify Your Values: How do you define your values? Are you motivated by your health, creativity, personal growth, or do you feel motivated by connection? Aligning your resolutions to your primary values will give you a the sense of meaning you’ve always wanted.
- Create Specific, Measurable and Attainable goals (SMART): Specific. This framework provides a roadmap to help you achieve your goals that keep them to reality, and increasing the chances of achieving success.
- Believing in the power of small steps: You don’t have to change everything over night. Begin by taking small, achievable steps you can build on consistently. Celebrate each achievement, no matter what it might seem like.
- Be flexible and embrace iteration: Life throws curveballs. Be willing to alter your resolutions when necessary. Don’t hesitate to modify or even eliminate a resolution when you feel it is too complicated or does not meet your needs.
Beyond the individual: Resolving issues that have ripple effects
The effects of our resolutions for the new year are not limited to our private lives. Utilize this opportunity to spread positive ripples. You might consider volunteering in your community, donating to an organization you believe in or simply making a commitment to act of kindness and love in your daily interactions. Keep in mind that even the smallest actions can have a huge influence on those around you.
Resolutions Seeds of Change
With a positive mindset and an intention to change your outlook, new year’s resolutions could be powerful tools for positive transformation. By prioritizing and accepting your core values by focusing on smaller, actionable goals, and being flexible, you can transform your resolutions for 2019 into seeds that grow into a meaningful and fulfilling 2024. Stop focusing on gimmicks and take the process. Instead we should create resolutions that have a lasting impact not just on us but also on our world. Happy New Year! Happy intentional growth.