We know it can be challenging to stick to your New Year’s resolutions through the end of the year, but it’s far from impossible. Accountability is key, and with these few steps, you’ll be able to achieve your goals easier than ever.
1. Make specific, realistic resolutions.
Instead of saying “I want to make sleep a priority this year, a better resolution would be “I will maintain a consistent sleep schedule this year by going to sleep by 11 p.m. and waking up at 7 a.m. every day.”
With a clear, actionable statement, you’ll be much more likely to accomplish your goal.
2. Enlist a friend or family member to join you in your resolution.
Joining forces with a loved one can motivate some people since you’d have an extra person to keep you accountable. However, we advise against relying too heavily on others. After all, just because a friend decides to quit morning jogs with you doesn’t mean you should quit as well!
3. Log your progress in a journal.
Journaling your progress toward achieving your resolution will keep you honest with yourself and motivate you to continue.
Once it becomes a habit to write down your progress, achieving your resolution will become a piece of cake.
4. Reward yourself for accomplishing steps toward your resolution.
Whether it means treating yourself to your favorite drink at the end of the week or planning a weekend getaway with friends at the end of the month, give yourself that extra motivation by rewarding yourself for sticking to your resolution after a set time period.
5. Don’t lose faith in yourself if you slip up on your resolution.
There’s no need to rage quit as soon as you slip up on your resolution. Acknowledge that you made a mistake, and continue working toward your resolution with more determination than ever.
New Year’s resolution ideas:
- Save time during the week by meal prepping every Sunday.
- Finish at least one book a month.
- Commit to volunteering at least once a month.
- Focus more on living in the present moment by staying off your phone during meals.
- Make journaling a habit by jotting down a page of your thoughts every night.