At every start of a new year, it brings another opportunity to make your life count! Regardless of how you spent the previous year, this is the time where you can focus on living a more healthful and fulfilling life. Did you know that approximately 80% of resolutions fail within the second week of February? Whether you want to eat healthier, exercise more regularly or achieve anything else in this year, it's all about sticking to your goals! Let's look at our top 5 habits to achieve it!
1. Think small
When I say think small, I don't mean setting our aim terribly low in fear of falling short. Break big goals into smaller milestones instead, as it will get you closer to your goal. For example, if your goal is to lose 5kg of your weight this year, create smaller goals such as going for a jog three times a week for a start, or cutting down on fast food to just once a month. These small milestones can empower you to reach your goals.
2. Be realistic
To bring about achievements in life, we need to set realistic goals. As much as you desire something, it's unlikely that you will achieve it when. You have doubts about accomplishing it. While you should always set goals that will challenge you, it's also important to take a realistic approach.
3. Have a buddy system
Having a buddy alongside can make a tremendous difference. Find a like-minded person who will keep you in check and support you on your journey. If possible, find someone you trust who is reliable and can motivate you along. Or ask a friend or family member to check in on your progress from time to time.
4. Reducing friction
If you want to cultivate good habits, you can diminish the friction for the new behaviour. Try to picture yourself accomplishing your goals and what it feels like instead of the obstacles and setbacks that you will experience along the way.
5. Document your progress
Even though we all have goals in our mind, it is good to pen them down. Yes, I am telling you that your goals should be in writing. When you pen down your goals, you increase the odds of reaching that goal as your motivation increases as well. While working on your goal, create a habit of documenting down your successes and challenges regularly as it helps you stay focused on keeping your resolutions.
Goal setting is much more than simply writing your goals and waiting for something to happen. Unless you clearly define exactly what you want and understand why you want it in the first place, your odds of success are considerably reduced. Are you ready to set yourself up for success?
This article is contributed by Holmusk.
References:
- Why 80 Percent of New Year's Resolutions Fail. (2015). Retrieved from 28 December 2020.
- Publishing, H. (2017). An easier way to set and achieve health goals - Harvard Health. Retrieved 28 December 2020.