Setting resolutions can really engage our motivation and desire to achieve. It is exciting to set goals and meet them!
Often times, we expect so much out of ourselves, that we end up setting unrealistic and unattainable goals, especially around this time of year.
So here is how you to set a REALISTIC resolution this year:
1. Make a list of goals and prioritize it. Think about what you want to be different next year at this time. Think about your personal life, your relationships, your work life, etc. Some people want to read more, others want to be more present while some want to specifically focus on their relationships. Whatever changes you want to see, write it down. Then prioritize them so you know what to work on first. Choose the top goal (or 2) to start.
2. Break each goal down into small tasks. This usually includes breaking tasks down several times because we don’t always realize what goes into a goal. For instance, if health is the goal, what does that mean for you? More water intake, more sleep, less carbs, more exercise? All of those things have a long list of tasks beneath them. The best way to figure out the tasks is first is breaking down what it means to be healthier, kinder, more present, etc. Here is an example:
- I want to be healthier this year.
- Drink more water: In order to drink more water, I will:
- Track what I am currently drinking
- Replace one soda with water a day
- Set up my water on the counter so I know what I need to drink each day
- Get more sleep: In order to get more sleep, I will:
- Create a bedtime routine
- Set an alarm to tell me to go to bed
- Block social media on my phone
- Go to bed a few minutes earlier each week.
- Eat healthier foods
- Add vegetables to one meal each day
- Find alternatives to the foods I love
- Eat less carbs – plan one meal a week with no carb served
- Exercise more
- Walk twice a week
- Each month, try a new sport/workout to see what I like
- Increase my walking or add other options so I am working out 3-4x/week
- Drink more water: In order to drink more water, I will:
3. Choose a small task each week. You are busy enough as it is…so help yourself out and choose simple, small tasks that will create less of a challenge to incorporate them into your everyday life. One task a week to focus on instead of 47 seems like it is much more attainable, right? 🙃 So choose the task you are most excited about and start with that first, trying to incorporate it into your normal routine.
4. Celebrate your progress. Your brain is always looking to feel good, so celebrate any progress you make to help it want to continue to do that task! If you want to learn more about how your brain works, specifically how it is motivated, check out my free guide! If you need somewhere to celebrate, join our Frantic to Fierce facebook group!
You got this! You have all year to work on this goal and the slower you take it, the more likely it sticks! So be gentle and compassionate towards yourself and take one a little at time. And don’t forget to share your success!!