The clock strikes midnight, the confetti falls and a familiar hum can be heard throughout the night: “New Year’s resolutions.” The year 2024 is about to begin and is a time to look forward to the promise of a fresh start and self-improvement. As we rush to join gyms or begin cleansing programs, take a moment for a second to think about whether or not these promises are just temporary, doomed to the graveyard of unfulfilled dreams?
What is the reason resolutions frequently fail?
The statistics paint a grim picture. Research has shown that an astounding 88% of people quit within the beginning of a few months. Why? We can get sucked into making bold statements and fast solutions. We vow to fight undesirable behaviors, and set goals that are too lofty and with no clear strategy for implementation. We get discouraged by the inevitable failure and fall back into our old ways.
Reframing Resolution From Gimmicks to Growth Mindset
Instead of seeing resolutions like a rigid list of goals, think of resolutions as a plan for development. The key is shifting our focus away from the final result to the process. Make sure to focus on healthy habits such as daily exercise and mindful food instead of striving to attain a chiseled body. Instead of declaring that you will master a new language in one day, practice consistently and be grateful for every little victory along the journey.
From aspiration to action: weaving relevant resolutions
To create effective resolutions, you must be able think critically and pragmatistically. Here are a few tips to guide you on your way:
- Find Your Values: What are your primary values? Are they connection, creativity, or personal growth? Aligning resolutions to your values will give you an objective and increases motivation.
- Set SMART goals: Specific Measurable Achievable Relevant Time-bound. This framework offers you the ability to anchor your resolutions within reality.
- Accept the power of Small Steps: Don’t try to overhaul your life overnight. Begin by taking small, manageable actions that you can build upon consistently. Recognize each milestone, regardless of how tiny it might seem as, and see your progress improve.
- Be flexible and embrace iteration: Life throws curveballs. Be willing to alter your resolutions as needed. If you find that a goal you’ve set is too overwhelming or doesn’t match with your values anymore It could be the right time to modify or even take it off the table.
Beyond Individual Resolutions Ripple Effects
It’s not just our personal life that is affected by resolutions. We can use this time to create positive ripples that extend outwards. Think about volunteering to support your community or to support a cause that is close to your heart. You can also show daily kindness and compassion by committing yourself to acts of kindness. Even the smallest of acts could make a huge difference to those who are around you.
Conclusion Resolutions as Seeds for Change
With a mindset of growth and a desire to change the way you think about things, resolutions for the new year can be powerful tools to transform your life. By prioritizing and accepting your core values by focusing on smaller, actionable goals, and being flexible, you will be able to turn your resolutions for 2019 into seeds that can grow into a meaningful and fulfilling 2024. Let’s get rid of all the hype, join the journey, and create resolutions that will leave an lasting impression not just on ourselves, but on the world that surrounds us. Happy New Year, and a happy, growing in a way that is intentional!