Why We Make Resolutions
Why do millions of peopleresolve to changeat the beginning of every year?
Perceptions of the success of these resolutions vary.
So how long do resolutions last?
Verywell / Joshua Seong
Even if resolutions don’t always stick, that doesn’t mean that resolutions aren’t worth making.
So, what can you do to make it more likely that you will keep your next resolution?
The following tips may help you beat the odds.
In other words, choose a very specific, achievable goal.
Be sure to make your goal realistic rather than drastic.
For larger goals, consider breaking them apart into manageable chunks to work on one at a time.
Taking on too much all at once can be daunting.
It can be particularly difficult because establishing new behavioral patterns takes time and sustained effort.
Focusing on one specific goal makes keeping a resolution much more achievable.
Put Time Into Planning
Don’t wait until the last minute to choose your goal.
Picking wisely and putting in extensive planning are essential parts of achieving any goal.
Make a Detailed Plan
Creating a detailed written plan can help you stick to your goal.
Why is this stage so critical for success?
Instead, focus on taking tiny steps that will ultimately help you reach your larger goal.
Which strategies were the most effective?
Which were the least effective?
What has prevented you from keeping your resolution in past years?
Consider altering your resolution slightly to make it more feasible.
By changing your approach, you will be more likely to see real results this year.
Be patient with yourself.
Understand that working toward your resolution is a process.
Having asolid support systemcan help you stay motivated and accountable.
Camaraderie makes sticking to your resolution more fun, too.
So, ideally, find a like-minded pal or loved one to join you in your goal.
Better yet, enlist the help of others by joining a group that shares your goal.
When you face such moments, remind yourself exactly why you are doing this.
Finding sources of inspiration can keep you going when times get tough.
Keep that inspiration alive by continuing to work on your goals, even after facing setbacks.
If your current approach has crapped out, reevaluate your strategies, and develop a new plan.
Being flexible with your planand even your end goalwill help you be successful.
If you suddenlyrelapse into a bad habit, don’t view it as a failure.
Instead, view relapses as learning opportunities.
By understanding the challenges you face, you will be better prepared to deal with them in the future.
It’s not just the end goal that mattersit’s the journey along the way.
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doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0234097
YouGov America.Americans who plan to make New Year’s resolutions are more optimistic about better things in 2022.
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