New Year’s resolutions tend to be things that one feels will improve their lives in some way. They often revolve around generic themes, such as health, fitness, finances, bad habits, and mental health. These are all noble goals, so why do so many people fail? The answer includes a mix of unrealistic goals with a lack of planning. With no plan in place, staying stuck is the common outcome. As more time goes by without solid progress, it will become easier and easier to let the goal go – there’s always next year, you’ll tell yourself. Instead of giving up before you start, go into the new year with an actionable plan that backs up your goals in a less overwhelming way. In therapy, we often break down a larger issue into smaller, more digestible steps. This same process can be used when it comes to any goal or resolution.

Stick To Specifics

Large, lofty goals seem great in theory, but they don’t mean anything without a road map to get there. If you’re telling yourself your resolution is “get healthy,” then you need to know how you are going to do that. For example, “I will incorporate a vegetable into my meals 4 times per week” or “I will go to bed by 10 p.m. on weeknights.” Small, specific steps are less overwhelming, create a realistic starting point and give you something to track. You can always add more later once you notice progress and habit implementation.

Track Your Progress

After determining your mini goals, consider how you plan to keep track of progress. Using the above example, it would be hard to determine if your goal of “get healthy” is being met. But breaking down goals can be more easily tracked – have you been adding vegetables into your meal planning? Do you have a sleep tracking app? These things are much easier to watch and reflect on than a generic goal with no parameters.

Keep It Real

Not every goal works for every person – keep them achievable for you. If you want to eat better, but know certain foods are difficult for you, maybe a goal of adding them to four meals per week isn’t realistic. Instead, choose something you know you can actually do – like cutting dessert or adding fruits. By considering your own specific resources, preferences and abilities, you can choose a plan you can actually envision yourself sticking with.

Check-In On A Schedule

A New Year resolution gives the impression that it’s a year-long goal so you have the entire year to make it happen. You can guess how that can turn out – by ending another year in the same place you were at the beginning and wondering what happened. Don’t give up! Plan for success by creating check-in points for yourself to reflect on your progress. One month, three months, six months – it’s up to you! At that time, look back at what you’ve accomplished, adjust what doesn’t work and even add on new elements if you’re ready. That check-in point gives you built-in accountability instead of the open-endedness of the entire year.

Maintain Flexibility

Even with the best of intentions, things do not always end how you planned. These are your goals, and you can pause and pivot at any point in time. When things create more stress than benefit, it’s likely time to readjust. Don’t give up, just change tactics.

There’s something so exciting about the promise of a new year on the horizon. It’s a great time to both reflect and plan ahead. What do you want for your future, and what’s the best way to attain that? We’re confident you can forge ahead making great progress if you keep your goals realistic, personal and specific. Stay flexible, revise as needed, and enjoy the ride!

If the road gets bumpy and you’re looking for support in navigating change, Sillon Wellness is here for you. One of our experienced therapists can help you work through mental blocks you might be facing, ease your anxiety and be a supportive sounding board when you need it. Contact us anytime to schedule a free 15-minute consultation – and Happy New Year!